KAILUA-KONA — Get ready! After a three-year hiatus, Kona’s 16th annual Jingle Bell Beach Run is back — and ready to roll — this Sunday at the beautiful Coconut Grove Marketplace.
This year’s Christmas-themed running event is geared to spread holiday cheer with the return of the 5K footrace, Santa’s Keiki Dash and the elaborate costume contest. Whether you are just looking for a fun and festive way to get active, or a seasoned runner wanting one last race of the year, the Jingle Bell Beach Run has something for everyone.
It is the perfect opportunity to jingle, jangle and blitz your way down historic Alii Drive while donning your favorite holiday ensemble and belting out a holiday cheer. The Christmas-themed event guarantees that no matter what age or fitness level, it’s an event for the whole family to enjoy.
Keauhou’s Penn Henderson, who co-organizes the event with his wife Rani, said they are dedicated to continue to offer the community a first-class running event. Both feel grateful to the tremendous support received from local businesses, an amazing group of volunteers and, of course, the dedicated participants dressed in elaborate costumes who have been a part of the event throughout the years.
“It’s always been and truly is a reflection about what the Jingle Bell Beach Run represents — a wonderful community event in partnership with local businesses and volunteers emphasizing the holiday spirit of giving,” said Henderson.
The Jingle Bell Beach Run’s 3.1-mile run/walk will start roadside at 7:30 a.m. in front of Coconut Grove Marketplace and head north toward the Kailua Pier while taking in views of Kailua Bay and the historic Kailua Village. Participants will then make their first U-turn just before the Kailua Pier, and then proceed south toward the Sea Village before heading back to the finish line at Coconut Grove Marketplace.
In addition to the 3.1-mile footrace, the event will also feature the Santa’s Keiki Dash for children ages 6 and under, and the ever-popular costume contest, where participants get creative with their festive attire, adding an extra layer of fun and competitiveness to the running event.
So, whether you’re running to beat your personal best or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll in your holiday-themed costume, the Jingle Bell Beach Run has something for everyone making it a must-do event this holiday season.
In the spirit of giving, this year’s charity recipients will be awarded to PATH (People for Active Transportation Hawaii) and the Kiwanis Club of Kailua-Kona. Both organizations are locally based nonprofits who are involved with many on-going youth programs and meaningful activities that directly benefit our close-knit Kona community. Donations are being accepted.
Prizes will be awarded to the top three overall and age-group divisions in the 5K race, as well as the top three “best dressed” Christmas costumes showcasing the most elaborate and creative holiday ensembles.
So, if you haven’t already, there’s still time to register. Online registration will continue until 4 p.m. today. In-person late registration, bib number and timing chip pickup will be at Coconut Grove Marketplace on Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. till 3 p.m. There will be no race day registration for the 5K. The Santa’s Keiki Dash is free for children aged 6 years and under and will feature 50-yard, 100-yard and 200-yard races beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday. For more information visit www.kona5k.com.
