KAILUA-KONA — Kona Marathon Week kicked off in Kailua-Kona on Saturday with the 8th annual Aloha Keiki Run, which took place in the parking lot of the Kona Commons Shopping Center.
Approximately 400 kids, ages 1-15, showed up along with their families for various races based on age from the 100 and 200-yard dash to the quarter, half and full mile runs.
There was also a water slide on hand, along with a tour of a fire truck and various games provided at booths set up by local running clubs and businesses.
“This is a family oriented event and a great community event,” said Sharron Faff, owner and race director of the Kona Marathon, which presented the race. “Kids who previously raced keep coming back every year and the event continues to grow.”
One young runner making an appearance this year was Ciaran Hansen, who won his 200-yard dash 6-year-old race heat and finished third overall with a time of 43 seconds. The keiki runner was very focused on the competition, showing racing maturity beyond his age.
“I was concentrating on working and looking straight ahead. I worked my way up, passed runners and won,” Hansen said. “I was worrying about nothing else. I had no questions in my head, it was just blank.”
The Aloha Keiki Run is just the first event of Kona Marathon Week. There will also be a Heath and Fitness Fair on Saturday at the Hilton Waikoloa Village starting at 10 a.m. that will feature over 30 booths.
The Kona Marathon will start and finish at the Waikoloa Bowl at Queens’ Garden on Sunday at 5:30 a.m. There will also be a half marathon scheduled for 6 a.m., followed by a quarter-marathon and a 5K.