It’s hard to believe that one year has already passed since COVID-19 arrived in Hawaii, which among other things, led to an immediate halt of all sporting events. Today, the virus still lingers and the effects are far from over as the pandemic continues to cancel organized running events well into 2021.
On March 4, Brent Imonen, race director for the Kona Marathon, announced the decision to once again postpone its four popular running events — the marathon (26.2-miles), half marathon (13.1-miles), quarter marathon (6.2-miles) and 5K (3.1-miles) — until June 26, 2022.
“We continue to be respectful of your health and financial risks in determining a course of action moving forward,” Imonen said in an email sent out to all registered athletes. “While it’s true that COVID-19 related conditions seem to be improving in various spots around the country, we as a state, county, organization, group of sponsors, and community of runners simply cannot guarantee the safe and rewarding experience that you deserve at this time.
“We have made the difficult decision to postpone the June 2021 event to June 25-26, 2022.”
The Kona Marathon has been West Hawaii’s iconic endurance running event since its humble beginnings in 1994. It has also known several venues to which it called home.
From the former Keauhou Beach Hotel and Kona Surf Hotel, to the Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa at Keauhou Bay, and finally the Waikoloa Beach Resort — where the event has been held since 2015. The courses for all races start and finish at the Waikoloa Bowl next to Queen’s Marketplace.
Last year’s forced cancellation made it the first time in race history to not have the event run as scheduled. It would have been the 27th edition with this year being the 28th.
“We will continue to have an ongoing dialogue with key partners, including state and county officials, and will provide you with updates as they become available,”
Imonen said in the email. “Stay safe and healthy, socially distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful Hawaiian shores in 2022.”