Runners HI Ohana

#6. A December to Remember

2009-01-01T17:32:00.000-08:00

The end of the year marked a very important time for many in the Ohana. Several ran their first marathon in Honolulu all finishing and having a very memorable experience that they'll always cherish. Congrats to Lei, Alison, Marge E., Vera, Rae, Gene and Matt!
Several of the Ohana also took a quick trip the weekend prior to run on the mainland U.S. in either the Las Vegas or California International (Sacramento) marathons in attempts to either qualify for the Boston marathon, gain Marathon Maniac status, or both. The Queen, Frayed Laces, Shelley, Jerelyn, and Joe in becoming Hawaiianiacs during this two weekend marathon spree!!! Much mahalos to Maniacles and his wife for coordinating our first pre-marathon party at Buca de Beppo where the Prez and srlopez attended with many of the Hawaii Maniacs.

#7. Final Volcano Marathon

2009-01-01T12:17:00.001-08:00

Perhaps one of the most inspiring and challenging Hawai`i marathons was the Volcano marathon, which was part of a set of Wilderness runs set within the Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawai`i. Usually taking place in late July, our Ohana have always made it a point to take part in this event and enjoying the unique view and atmosphere. Deemed as 'one of the hardest marathons in the world', the most common advice given when new runners signed up was to 'add an hour to your usual marathon time'.

As this year's event date loomed, eruptions and lava flows began to form about the Pu`u O`o vent around late February. A day after the Hilo Marathon, the vent 'exploded' sending clouds of ash and an almost constant plume of smog into the air. The 'vog' created some concern about whether the race could continue, though there was also the unpredictability over a possible second 'eruption'.

During the Kona marathon in late June, further news had spread that another roadblock for the Volcano events was surfacing. A native Hawaiian group had voiced concerns about the amount the runs possibly causing harm to cultural sites. Moreover they believed that runners 'disrespected' the sanctity of the park. Continual debates created uncertainty for the future of this event, as even a drastic change in the route prompted many to not enter the event (no more treks into the lava fields).

Unhindered by the news of the event, the Ohana planned for the event and made their way up to Volcano National Park the day before with plans of having a relaxing fun evening both before and after the race(s). While awaiting the departure of our flight, Mark E and I convinced Frayed Laces to 'upgrade' from the 10-miler to the marathon. It didn't take to many 'pulled strings' to get her hooked as within two minutes we were informing all that she would doing her first marathon since her broken pelvis injury.

On Saturday (7/26), fifteen of the Ohana (including those from the Hilo Bayfront Runners) took part in what many were hypothesizing to be the last Volcano marathon. The route was an out-and-back course, taking runners through the pristine rainforests that populate the high elevations and descending to the fringes of the Ka`u Desert. Thereafter, entrants were directed back up the road and ascended Escape Road, a 2+ mile high grade jeep (dirt) trail through the rainforest.

In evaluating the 'new' course, it was found that it was actually 27+ miles! There was mixed emotions over the route with some wondering if this would be the permanent change. Several Ohana felt that this was a very challenging course and though the feeling of running in the lava field was missing, just taking part in this event was more than a reward.

In the end, the race director 'Big Dog' Joseph sadly reported a few weeks later that during very frustrating conversations with both the park administrators and cultural liaisons from the Hawaiian group, that this was indeed the last Volcano run. Many in the gang felt the sad loss as this was not only a very special event for its locality but also for its unique experience. Not only is this a loss for the running community, but also for Hawai`i's economic/tourism as the event brought in a very generous amount of mainland visitors.

#8. The Ohana keeps growing and stacking up marathons...on the East Coast!!

2008-12-31T00:05:00.001-08:00

Our previous East Coast Ohana consisted mainly of Stroller Mom, Dad, and the kids, now it includes Laura & Jason S. along with Kristine and Justin. The Stroller family has accumulated quite a string of marathons and ultras this year as seen in many of this past year's blogs, along with making many of the Ohana here in HI a bit jealous! Laura S. is on her way to fanagling her way to becoming a Maniac as she recently completed the Weather Channel Atlanta Marathon with much support from Jason (who did the half). Justin was last heard to be busy coaching the women's cross-country team at his former college while Kristine began medical school! We miss all of them alot though it's really great to read all of thier updates, achievements and just general thoughts! Can't wait to see what 2009 brings about!!!

#9. Red Rabbit sets the bar!!! 24 in a year!

2008-12-25T12:44:00.000-08:00

One would think moving to a colder climate with a new job, house to refurbish, and a new environment to explore would keep a runner pre-occupied from doing too many races. Well, not if you're a Marathon Maniac...especially if you're the Red Rabbit!!! After moving to Washington state (homefront of the Maniacs) in mid-September 2007, RR went on a tear doing every marathon or ultra that he could possibly include in to his travel itnerary or get to without much hassle! Since moving he's amassed 28 such events, 23 this year to date! He'll have 24 with one last marathon of year event on the 31st of this month, Mary's Last Chance Marathon (put on by the Maniacs)! His events include various ones in the Washington area (Ron Herzog 50k, Pigtails flata$$, 'the light at the end of the tunnel' marathon) as well as those on the southwest (San Deigo RnR marathon, Las Vegas marathon, LA marathon) and east coast (Boston marathon)! He even flew out to Hawai`i for the last Volcano Wilderness Run (marathon) this pastJuly (pictured w/ Mark E.). Check out his full Maniac record!

Good luck RR & TC on the final marathon! Great job to RR as well as everyone else for all your achievements in 2008! Can't wait to see what level of insanity the Red Rabbit reaches in 2009, as well as what the rest of the Ohana will do!

Happy Holidays!!!

2008-12-25T12:35:00.001-08:00

To everyone, whether in Hawai`i Nei, on the continental U.S., or abroad, hope your holiday season if filled with much joy and happiness! Much luck and prosperity to you in 2009! Here's the group pic from this past Tuesday's Red & Green/Jingle bell Run! Take care all and see you on the roads and trails! Aloha!

The best of 2008

2008-12-22T23:34:00.000-08:00

As the holidays inch ever so closer, we begin to move on to another year! Wow has time just flown by! For the next ten days, we'll feature the top 10 Runners' HI moments in 2008 that occured not only in Hawai`i nei but also with our Mainland Ohana.

#10. Hilo to Volcano 50k...Coming out of the cold!!!
To celebrate Shaka and Ray's bdays, as well as start off 2008 with a neat challenge, a bunch of the gang decided to run this inaugural ultra-marathon event put on by Wayne 'the Big Dog'. Besides the bday boys, others participating included Maniacles, Mark 'da Rock', the WW bros (Wyatt & Wily), TC, and the editor. We were also joined many other ultra-runners that we knew such as David C., Nick K., and Jim W. Our loyal and very patient sag-crew of Jim and Amy, drove the full 50k catering to our needs and keeping our spirits up despite the cold, windy and wet conditions (about 60 degrees C not including the windchill).
Although an 'anonymous' member of the gang suffered a mild case of hypothermia, he also made a new friend from Japan, Hide, who, along with David C., got him to the right people for much needed medical attention. Another of the gang managed to avoid the same predicament, though he had to suffer some slight humility by wearing a woman's, small, purple jacket!
All in all, it was another fun neighbor island running event that the gang will always remember as making 2008 more memorable!

Honolulu Marathon 2008...more results

2008-12-16T00:16:00.000-08:00

Just a few other notable mentions I forgot to add in:
Kari Sakauye - 6:47:29 (her very first marathon and road race....ever!!!)
Neil Sakauye - 6:47:35 (ran/paced with his wife the entire distance...that's dedication!!!)
Brenda Yim - 3:58:34 (with a bad shoulder/back/nerve injury!)

Honolulu Marathon 2008, another year in the books

2008-12-14T21:53:00.001-08:00

For the second year in a row, those participating in the annual Honolulu Marathon saw the race begin in very wet conditions as heavy rains soaked the island well into the morning. Though the sun did manage be peak through the clouds about 8am, it was a very overcast and challenging race. Despite the economic crunch, two recent cases of doping, and a glitch in last year's timing process, a crowd of approximately 23,000 strong register to run the race.

Through the intermittent rains that often became quite heavy, an obstacle course of water puddles, soaked discarded clothes and trash bags, and various injuries (including a injured foot tendon and several blisters) as well as many 'bonking', the entire Ohana completed the marathon.

Congrats to our former marathon rookies! As Frayed Laces put, you've popped your marathon cherry!

Marge - 4:22:35

Lei - 5:32:04

Alison - 6:16:43

Vera - 5:18:17

Rae - 4:37:54

Noelle - ??

Gene - 5:22:38

All were very ecstatic about finishing and seemed optimisitic about running another marathon (some more than others) in the very near future! Great job all, you all persevered! Now enjoy the moment cause you're now officially marathoners!

Several of the gang also became Marathon Maniacs with the completion of today's race, having completed either the Las Vegas or California International Marathon last weekend:

Frayed Laces - 4:33:21

the Queen (Hilo) - 5:16:53

Jerelyn B. - 5:38:54

Shelley C. - 5:38:29

FL reported has already submitted her app to become part of the 'Insane Asylum', with the other ladies no doubtely doing the same within the week!

For the rest of us it was anther marathon and doing what we've done every year.

Steve P. (Hilo) - 4:04:49

Greg (Hilo) - 5:11:39

DJ (Hilo) - 4:57:21

Betty (Hilo) - 5:54:24

Lee (Hilo) - 5:59:55

Harvey (Hilo) 5:50:34

Bob - 6:12:09

Roy - 5:44:55 (Heather wore him out!)

Maniacles - 4:00:12

Mike P - 5:40:08

Glen - 4:05:37

Roger - 5:13:34

Mark 'da Rock' - 4:03:16

Jeff F. - 3:32:53

'Maverick' Nakasone - 3:46:43

Gio - 4:19:44

Freddy - 3:48:00

Alfredo 'da Man' - 4:59:11

Heather - 5:44:58

Johnny 'Shaka' - 3:27:51

WWI (Wyatt) - 3:54:52

Jay K. - 3:22:45

Timm 'one oversized Menehune' - 4:53:15

Joe - 3:59:17

Matt - 4:53:45

Mike 'Smooth' G. - 3:58:22 (PR!!!)

Habu - 4:32:15

Carole - 3:44:10

Doug T. - 3:57:53

da Cos - 3:30:57

John S. - 6:27:12 (finished despite a bad leg injury!! way to go!)

Reed - 3:44:19

Brenda - ??

Ray - 4:08:08

Wily Coyote/WWII - 5:33:09 (slept in late and got to the start 45 minutes after everyone left!)

Much aloha to Lynda and Anne as they battled the flu and injury, respectively, and could not enjoy in today's fun. Get better soon!

As I cruised through the miles, I thought of the HM's I've done before and the various people I've met (Maniacles & Shaka probably have 10x's this), it was awesome not only seeing the spectacle of so many trudging through the miles but also seeing people I knew from either when I first started (Geoff H., Dr. P., John S.) to those who have recently began running with the Ohana (Mike P., Alison, Gene).

Much mahalos to Maniacles who looked up pretty much everyone's finishing times, and Laura for the photos (my disposable still needs to get developed)!

Congrats all in finishing despite the bad weather and the little 'tweaks' to our running plans that it caused! It's all about the finishing! Now on to 2009 and a new year in running! Have an awesome holiday season all! This Tuesday (12/16) will feature our second annual post-HM barbeque, with the following Tuesday being 'red & green' day along with the Runners' HI Christmas party! See you on the roads and trails!!!

The day(s) before....Honolulu Marathon 2008

2008-12-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

As the year winds down and we begin to get into the festive mood of the holidays, runners in Hawai`i also prepare for one of the most anticipated events here, the Honolulu Marathon. This year will be the 36th of it's conception, with many former participants returning especially those from our Ohana. Once again Maniacles has convinced and aided several of our middle distance runners to attempt their first marathon! Good luck and much success to all of our six 'rookie' marathoners, Alison (who turns 26.2 years of age while running her first 26.2-miles), Marge (wife of Mark 'da Rock'), Lei (former short distance runner and triathlete, not in picture), Vera (Marge's training partner, not in picture), Nicole and Rae (both part of the Hilo Bayfront Ohana)!

Last night (Friday, Dec. 12), was the inaugural Runners HI Ohana/Hilo Bayfront Runners/Marathon Maniacs pre-HM dinner at Buca de Beppo at Ward Center. Our very own Maniacles and his lovely wife, Grace, both organized and hosted the event, with Marie K of the Hilo Bayfront Runners provided lei and several door prizes to for the event. Frayed Laces also donating much of the samples she had acquired from various companies that had taken interest in her website. Much Mahalos for all your time and generosity!

A total of 32 were in attendance, all enjoying the brews, food, camraderie, and conversation. this included six from the Hilo gang (Greg came in a bit late), as well as the Prez & SRLopex from the Maniacs! A Honolulu Marathon trivia contest was done, with very interesting peices of information being given (slowest finishing time for a women's champion was 3hrs, 25 minutes; over 70,000 sponges were used in 2005)! The life of the party was young George as he spread his energy and love to all there, while his dad, Tim, played wine server and spread 'the juice'. All in all it was a great night where all could unwind and enjoy the company of others.

Now on the final day before the big morning, many are doing their final race preparations: putting out their running clothes, pinning on the race bib, tying the race chip to their shoes, getting all their gels and nutrition together...all in anticipation of the day to come. Two of the Ohana will be parading through Waikiki into Hawai`i Kai and back as elves!

Good luck to all in completing the marathon! No matter what time or place you come in, it's all about finishing and lending to the feeling of what it's like to complete a marathon! See ya all at the finish!!!

Who doesn't love fast marathons

2008-12-07T21:43:00.000-08:00

Another weekend of marathoning has gone by, with various members of the Ohana participating in three different marathons on the mainland (I'm always astounded on how much we've grown)! More ironically they occurred on the same day (Sunday, 7December 2008) and within two time zones of each other! Here's the results, with hopefully some comments in latter blogs:

Tucson Marathon

Tucson, AZ

Elisa 'the Animal' is back!!! Clocking in at 4:04:32, she had quite a time at this one:

I was on track to break 4 hours until mile 23. I cannot complain about my time though. I was having stomach problems , so I stopped taking gels and advil around mile 14, then my knee started to hurt and at mile 23, the 4 hour pacer passed me and I could not keep up. Owell. Not a bad day though. It was overcast, so it stayed around a cool 65 or 70. I was running in a singlet and little shorts the whole time, but I looked up to see a bit of snow on the mountain tops. The Tucson Marathon.........definately the worst marathon for me so far. I had a friend dropping me off at the busses that take you to the start. We were in line for parking/drop off area for an hour. The race packet said the last bus left from that area going to the start at 0600. At 0557 I jumped out the car and started running for the busses. I ended up being on one of the first ones. The bus driver got lost going to the start. I really didn't think they were going to start the race on time.........I am not sure that all the busses were at the startline when the race started. The elevation profile is very misleading. You would think that it is mostly downhill. It definately did not seem that way to me. Maybe a slight decline (1%), but not downhill. There were not timing clocks at the mile markers. But then again, maybe I should buy a watch. Next up for me is Phoenix R&R.

Here's her full results.

Las Vegas Marathon

Las Vegas, Nevada

What a place to do Boston qualifier, then celebrate doing so! Several of the ladies went to do just that and are currently painting the town wallowing in celebration (so what goes on in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas)! I'm amazed Maniacles was able to get away from the crap tables and line up at the start! Congrats to all the our female members who all more than attained their goals! Here's the results:

Shaka - 3:26:00 BQd!, Maniacles - 3:32:11 BQd!, Frayed Laces - 3:37:40 BQd!!!!, Shelly C- 3:59: 18 BQ!, Red Rabbit - 4:01:55, Greg H - 4:13:17, Marie K. - 5:27:41(one more til a Maniac!), Harvey N. - 6:01:29, and Invincible Bob - 6:07:51...awesome job all!

Here's the results link for all the HI entrants.

California International Marathon (CIM)

Fremont to Sacramento, California

At the last moment, Denise and Dave switched from doing the Vegas trip to running CIM instead (perhaps avoiding the temptations of the Strip). The change gave them some really fast run times as both BQ'd!

DAVID C. 3:21:15

DENISE C. 03:41:26

Full results list here.

Dan T. and a few others participated in the XTERRA Challenge out on Kualoa Ranch today (a trail half-marathon). No results as of yet but will post them along with his race review later. Several of the Ohana did either an easy 10-miler along the P.H. bike path or partipated in the SAM's 5k (as well as a few extra miles). (I took a break from back2back H.U.R.T. loop days to recup and do these posts and race updates.) Hope all had a great weekend! One more week til HM!

A November Review

2008-12-02T22:28:00.000-08:00

The Ohana has been at it again, especially our mainland kin, who've been adding on those 26.2 fun miles like clockwork! For the O`ahu gang, we're all looking forward to this year's Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 14th, as it'll be the first for Marge, Alison, & Lei! All three have put in so much training and time in preparing for this! Hoping they'll not only do well but also enjoy the whole experience!

This weekend a couple of mainland US marathons will be run on Sunday. Several of the the Ohana will be congregating in the 9th island, Las Vegas, to run the Las Vegas marathon this coming Sunday (Dec. 7th). Good luck to Marie and Greg (Hilo Ohana), Invincible Bob (our newest Hawaiian Maniac #1167, who joined in early November), Evelyn, Maniacles, Shaka, and Red Rabbit as they add another notch on the ol' running belt while resisting the tempation to hit the casinos during the marathon! Much luck and success especially to Frayed Laces she seeks to (more likely will) BQ! Denise & Dave C. will be heading to sunny and cool Sacramento, California to run the CIM (California International Marathon) in hopes to also do the same (BQ)! Wow these marathoners know how to pick the quick getaways! Good luck to Elisa 'the Animal' as she takes on the Tucson marathon!

Here's a quick review of this past November:

Ron Herzog 50k Trail Run

Masonic Park, Granite Falls, WA.

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008

While attending to some business in Washington

(state), Mark 'da Rock' extended his stay and hung out with Red Rabbit over the weekend. To pass the time, they spent their Saturday morning running a 50k trail run. Here's a clip from Mark's email about the conditions:

Aloha Ohana and my beautiful wife,
All is well in Tacoma. I am freezing my butt off. The highs during the day are in the 50s and the lows are in the 30s. I am pretty sure I enjoy the Hawaii weather better. I had breakfast with Gary Sunday morning after I arrived here in Washington. I will link-up with him on Friday, the race starts at 0800 on Saturday and am looking forward to seeing Margie and the girls Sunday afternoon.
I will see you all with stories on Tuesday. Good luck to everyone running the half (Val Nolasco half marathon).
Margie, I know you will do great.

Despite cold, rainy conditions and being taunted by some Maniac named 'Pigtails' both persevered and got home to warm home cooking by Sue!

Mark got in at a cruising 5:10 with Red Rabbit bouncing in at 5:39! Reports are that there were some cursing by the latter about how cold it was!

Val Nolasco Half-Marathon

Race #5 of the Marathon Readiness Series

Kapi`olani Park, Waikiki, Hawai`i

Sunday , Nov. 9, 2008

Here's Maniacles comments (wasn't there, running up on the trails):

Nice cool morning but with quite a head wind. Over a thousand participants. AG awards to Tom, Carole, Shelly, Joe A and Jeff N. Here are the results.

For those who know him, it was nice to have Wayne Joseph, aka Big Dog, out there joining us for the race. For those who don't know Wayne, he is the race director for the Big Island Marathon and now defunct Kilauea Wilderness Runs.

Outer Banks Marathon

Kitty Hawk to Manteo, North Carolina

Sunday, Nov. 9, 2008

Stroller Mom & Dad were thought to be on a winter hiatus...not!!!

Had a great run, the numbers don't quite do it justice. First of all, a picture perfect day. Warmer than last year, just enough of a breeze to keep it from getting too hot. Not a cloud in the sky. Very friendly runners, lots of first timers.This is one of the very few times I've started a marathon not quite sure I'd be able to finish. I've been on drugs that are just wiping me out (never mind that the reason for the drugs is also taking its toll) and the first few miles of this race I really wasn't sure I'd make all 26. However, Dan did his level best to cheer me on, Dad was out on the course around mile nine with Chase to cheer us on, some kind soul gave me a cup of coffee at mile 15 and after that things went much better. And yes, since he pulled me through the early miles, I got him through the final miles.Number 26 for Dan, a great one to be his marathon marathon. We kissed at every mile marker, made the day for a few spectators. The theme this year was Pirates and the medal was a treasure map of the course. We've got a break before the next one -- North Central Trail the weekend after Thanksgiving.

Here's the results.

"The Red Rabbit Thanksgiving Triple' - All over WA

Friday, Saturday, & Sunday - Nov 28-30, 2008

Yes this triple 'threat' is not a real event but the races are! Talk about burning off those Thanksgiving day calories! Red Rabbit's been living it up in the bliss of Marathon Maniac Central! Guess he and Sue don't believe in Black Friday!

Wishbone Ultra on Friday (11/28): 4:28:30

Ghost of Seattle Marathon on Saturday (11/29): 4:30:44

Seattle Marathon on Sunday (11/30): 4:06:32

North Central Trail Marathon

Sparks, Maryland (Baltimore County)

Friday, Nov. 28, 2008

Stroller Mom & Dad bookended November with 'marathon-dates'...awe love & distance running!

Aloha from the East,

We had yet another spectacular day for a marathon. Cool temps, but not so cold our feet were frozen at the start. The North Central Trail Marathon is a wonderful, scenic race. Twenty three miles of it are an out and back on a rails-to-trails path that was left hard-pack, vice asphalt. Very gentle on the body parts. Temps in the mid 30's to start, upper 40's to finish, a very light WNW wind, lots of sunshine (they were calling for rain up until about three days ago!).

Dan and I did yet another date marathon, he claimed he didn't have the training for anything faster. I don't believe him, though I know he's still having problems with his plantar fasciitis. Gun and chip time we made it in under five hours. Given our respective training, we were happy with that.Much to our kids' delight, we celebrated at one of our favorite sushi places (the one we went to with you Johnny). Short stuff up next. I'm coaching elementary school girls for a program called Girls On the Run, our Fall 5K is this coming Saturday, then a metric marathon on Sunday. This after a fun Turkey Trot (over 2500 runners!) on Thanksgiving.

Hope all the other marathoners had a great weekend!

Saved the best for last!!! Laura and Jason S. having settled in on the East Coast have begun their marathon adventures! Here's Laura's account:

The Weather Channel Atlanta Marathon

Atlanta, Georgia

Thursday, Nov. 27, 2008

Jason and I decided to have a less than traditional Thanksgiving this year. On Wednesday, we went up to Atlanta for the Weather Channel Marathon and Half Marathon. The main attraction is really the Half, which attracted over 15,000 runners who wanted to "earn their turkey" that day. Jason ran the half, (with very little training) and his chip time was 1:53 and change. I was VERY proud of him.I ran the marathon as planned. I was extremely nervous going into it due to a hip flexor/groin/not really sure what it was injury.

This marathon is known for being a small race for "purists." A little over 1000 runners, no bells or whistles, or huge prize money, or even crowd support for that matter (heck, it's Thanksgiving), and LOTS of hills. The course is 90% the Olympic Marathon course from '96. Plus the it closes after 5 hours. I really didn't know if I could finish in 5 hours with this injury, lack of hill training, etc. but of course, I did NOT want to back out and switch to the 1/2. -- All I can say is a combination of Ibuprofen and Biofreeze can do AMAZING things!

We began at the Olympic rings at Turner Field. It was cold at the start. . . maybe about 30 degrees. I was shocked to see I was the lightest dressed -- wearing shorts, a short sleeve shirt and a garbage bag. Everyone else seemed to have tights, gloves, ear warmers. I ditched my garbage bag at the 1st aid station, but it did take about 3 miles for me to be able feel my feet again. By the time we finished, the temps were in the 60s.

As I was saying, Ibprofen and Biofreeze can do amazing things. I didn't even feel my injury. Due to my new lighter weight racing shoes, and the cold, I ran the first 10 miles extremely fast. I was on pace for a 4 hour marathon for quite some time. Oh, and the HILLS!!! There were at least 4 the size of diamond head plus about a million smaller hills. Mile 20- 25 is basically one big hill. Anyhow, by mile 19 I realized that even if I walked the last 7 miles I would still meet my goal of finishing in the 5 hour time limit. I decided not to push too hard and just enjoy those last miles. I ran-walked them. Ran when I felt like running and walked when I felt like walking. Jason was waiting for me at mile 22 or so and he ran with me a little way and then said he would see me at the finish. I really enjoyed those miles knowing that after all that worrying, I was going to do this. Mile 26, you run up a slight hill and at the crest, I saw the Olympic Rings waiting for me. What an inspiration! As I crossed the finish line (4:30:33), the announcer said my name. He pronouced it "Laura Shaltzy." I'm loopy after the run, right? I laughed really HARD just as the camera flashed! That'll be a cheesy picture.

Well, if you're still reading this. . . I missed you all. Especially seeing everyone after the race. Running a Marathon on Thanksgiving, I often thought "I am thankful I have the ability to run!" I know you all agree! Happy Holidays! ~Laura

Great job by all who participated in all of the events this past month! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving...btw, thanks for being the best Ohana! As we hit the home stretch in December, many are putting in the last few miles for one last marathon or two! Be sure to make the time to spend the holidays with family and friends and stay safe! Aloha!!!

Peacock 54 Results and Photos

2008-10-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

Results are up on the HURT site, but only recorded for those that completed both loops. Also some great pics by Gordon!!!

An Adventure in the Making, Part I: H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats 54-miler

2008-10-30T00:19:00.000-07:00

This is the second entry about this past weekend's Peacock 54-(56-)miler at Dillingham Air Field (Mokuleia/Kaena/Waianae) by the editor. In first writing this, it was very long and expansive since I experienced so much during the short span of 20-hours. I condensed several parts in order to not have too much detail and not make it too lengthy. Sorry no pictures, as given the circumstances, there might have only been mud figures to see! Enjoy!

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep; But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep. - Robert Frost, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

As I’ve always told many, trail runs to me are just that, I don’t consider them races or have a much desire to run the at a race pace. Perhaps the only ‘trail’ run I’ve really did do so were the Volcano Marathon, though this was only after the route was changed this year and consisted more of paved roads with parts of the back trails intermittently put in (still sad to see the whole event gone). For me trail running is a way for me to get back to the pure essence of why I started running, finding my inner peace and just being free.
When the 2008 H.U.R.T. Trail Series came out, I noticed that the 24-hours of Hogsback had been replaced with the 54-miler. I thought ‘Wow! That’ll be something to do!’ At the time I was still considering whether to re-enter the H.U.R.T. 100 (and did so after much conversation with John S., Maniacles, Ray, and numerous other H.U.R.T. runners). Gordon and Fish proclaimed this to be ‘the test’ in seeing where you were in terms of training for the 100-miler.
As many know, through guilt by association with a certain Hawai‘i Marathon Maniac, Shaka and I are often faced with deciding to do another ‘tour of the Islands’ with the numerous annual marathons (and a few ultras) on each Island. When we saw the date of the Peacock event, we both thought ‘that could be manageable to do’ following the Maui Marathon in mid-September. I looked as this as a means to increasing my mileage for the H.U.R.T. 100 in January. We (Shaka, Heather, and I) were able to get in two sessions of it, though Shaka got an extra…all with a great coach and mentor in Rex! WilyC & Habu were able to make the last practice run though it was the day that everyone did a make or break in pushing the pace on the route!
During the practice sessions or ‘tours’, the weather was basically the same…hot and humid with occasional gusts that produced mini dust storms. Someone mentioned that it never really rained much during this event and when it did well…

As the days counted down to the event, Shaka and I took stock of what we needed in terms of nutrition, equipment, and clothing. Gordon reminded us repeatedly to take at least a good long sleeve (if not jacket) as during the evening, the upper trails do get a bit cold. Here’s a listing of what I packed for the event:
- my hydration pack
- 20 gels (assortment of Hammer and Power)
- 2 bags of marguarita (xtra sodium) ClifBlocs
- 6 ClifBars + 2 trail mix bars + 2 PowerBars
- three 24-oz bottles of Gatorade
- 3 peanut butter sandwiches
- 1 gallon of drinking water
- a 12-oz cans of Red Bull
- two handheld flashlights (actually my ‘Catseye’ cycling lights)
- two headlamps
- extra batteries (AA & AAA)
- two extra technical shirts to change into (after each loop)
- a long sleeve technical shirt for the evening
- a thin windbreaker
- toilet paper
- a small first-aide kit
- my cell phone (fully charged)
- three beach towels
- extra clothes for post-race
- a small cooler for my ‘stash’ at the turnaround on Long Road containing a bottle of Gatorade, a Nalgene of water, a can of Red Bull, a bag of Oreo cookies, three gels, and two ClifBars.
- $10 for the entry fee

The morning of the event, I ‘woke to the sound of pouring rain’, but figured when we got to the other side it would be quite clear. WRONG!!! The rain intensified as we (Heather, Shaka, and I) traveled down to Dillingham Airfield with numerous puddles forming along the roadway. Participants stood in the rain getting last minute items packed into their hydration packs or pockets and putting on partially drenched shoes.As with most major events, things don’t always turn out as planned. In my haste to leave I forgot my ‘stash’ when I set it down to pet my dog goodbye for the day. During the trek there, my pack had tipped over and most of the water leaked out.
The start of H.U.R.T. races are no spectacular event (with exception of the Maunawili run), ‘just out ya all go!’ As Don and Gordon gave final instructions, they warned us of the impending elements and treacherous areas that may await us. ‘Safety is the main thing!’ With all being said and done, Don the reported, “20 seconds to start!” Whoops guess I wasn’t gonna be able to refill my water, oh well there was copious amounts falling from the sky! I had only about 50-oz of water still inside when we started, but luckily I also put a bottle of Gatorade in the exterior pocket of the pack.
As Don and Gordon gave final instructions, they warned us of the impending elements and treacherous areas that may await us. ‘Safety is the main thing!’ With all being said and done, Don the reported, “20 seconds to start!” Whoops guess I wasn’t gonna be able to refill my water, oh well there was copious amounts falling from the sky!
About 28 people braved the rain to sign up and start the run that morning, all having various goals and reasons for doing this. For Brenda, Ryan, Shakaman and I, it was just all about finishing and within the allotted time…so basically the clock was our main adversary. So as we began our initial approach to the singletrack switchbacks ascending the mountain, I did a quick job up to jockey a good position and not get stuck to far in the back.
I managed to pace out with Marian and a young Army cadet named Mike. It’s always fun hanging out and passing time with Marian. We shared fun stories and interesting experiences, including her recent mainland ultras (Miwok & Rocky Raccoon) and my ‘Iceman’ incedent (getting hypothermia at Hilo2Volcano)…perhaps a foretelling of things to come!
Three simple words most characterize the event that day…wet and muddy! The switchbacks and steep sets of jeep trail inclines were quickly becoming miniature waterfalls with the base ponding with mud and water. As we rounded several curves, we felt our feet skidding across the loose surfacing with little purchase beneath the mud. Throughout all the tumultuous amount of mud and constant drizzle of rain, we all remained positive and optimistic…better cool, wet and a bit muddy than hot, humid and dust, right? Besides we (or at least most of us) were having a great time! I’ve always mentioned to John S. that a good amount of mud is a requirement for events to be actual H.U.R.T. runs!
In reaching the short asphalt road, Rob was at the bottom providing Gatorade, water, snacks, and much support. He had braved the mud in his truck to set up a makeshift station, despite the wind and rain he was all smiles in making sure we were good to go for the duration of the two loops! Thanks Rob!
In reaching the single-track trail along the ridgeline of the mountain range (time at 2 hours, 30 minutes), I let Marian go first, with that she sped off along the ridge. Mike was still pacing off with me but I could tell he was losing steam as we traversed the route to the intersection going to Peacock Flats. He fell back about 100 meters but made up the distance once we returned to the jeep trail. He looked pretty exhausted so tried to keep up a conversation with him to get him to settle down and just keep a steady pace. He was rather pensive, so I settled on just commenting on a few landmarks and observances I made out loud to just cut the silence of the run.
The trail out to Peacock Flats and Long Road was already accumulating a lot of water and mud, about halfway through we encountered an off-roader going in the opposite direction. We exchanged ‘shakas’ and went our way. About a mile to the Green gate, I picked up a flattened can of ‘Monster’ Energy Drink that seemed to have been recently tossed and took it with me to dispose of. Gotta take care of the ‘aina!
The aide station at the bottom of Long Road was perhaps one of the best highlights of the entire event! Cheryl and Wah were instrumental in not only having everything ready there and aiding runners with refilling hydration packs, but also keeping our morale up! They were totally AWESOME! Words cannot describe the amount of support and motivation they gave each time a runner came in to refuel! Mahalos ladies! Fish, who was waiting for the second loop to pace Marian, was also great in making sure I was well stocked with fuel and remind me to make sure I had what I needed for my next loop.
As I began my way back up Long Road, Cheryl and Fish shoved a bag of Sun Chips into my hand, reminding me to pull out and devour my pbj sandwich I had packed earlier. As I devoured sections of the sandwich, I scanned the road to see what happened to Mike. I had stopped for about 10 minutes (in at 4 hrs, 3 min; out by 4:13) and he had not even been sighted coming down the road yet. As I got to within 200 meters of the gate, he had just crossed over it and was jogging toward me. He looked a bit beat but was maintaining that he had pushed the descent too much (I later found out that he pulled out at the aid station). Following him were Brenda, Ryan, Johnny, Ernest, and Mike M, all in great spirits and moving quickly to the aid station! Alright gang! Halfway up to the first water tank, Habu came ‘a motorin’ around’…with a big smile on his face! He made a few comments about the mud but was having a great time! Looking at my watch it was not yet 5 hours! He could actually do the entire event, just making it in at the cutoff! Go Habu-sama!! In reaching the second water tank, I encountered Heather and few others doing only one loop. She looked very warm in her pullover! Yup was jealous!
My plan was to push up Long Road with a very moderate tempo’d power walk, then go back to running at a good pace once I got back onto the trails. It was all proceeding well. The rain was still falling creating additional mud and causing some rockfall along the side of the trail going back to the Kealia trail. I was in great spirits and even stopped to pick up more discarded material, a very large rain poncho rolled up neatly and two additional drink cans. About 1/3 of the way there I encountered a group of off-roading vehicles (three trucks and two jeeps), the people were amazed at all the runners and were having fun themselves. Many of the drivers were having quite a challenge maneuvering their vehicles in the slick mud!
I made great time in getting back to the Kealia trail and even better time to the switchbacks…much due to Gordon’s great marking of the route! At first I thought the shale and loose rocks on the descent back down would be the problem, turned out the saturated trail had turned to goo making slipping the primary issue. Nonetheless I proceeded down unfaltered, acknowledging and cheering on those beginning their second loop.
I completed my first loop in just over 7 hours (7:03). After checking in with John & PJ, they quickly offered to help me reload everything. I thanked them for their kokua but had my supplies on my truck only a 100 meters away. ‘Mr & Mrs H.U.R.T.’ are always so supportive and helpful! In making my way to my vehicle, I ran through my mind what I was gonna do. I got off my pack then switched shirts, drying off with a warm towel in between. I then got my wet shoes and socks off, got them bagged up, and got on clean, dry ones. I traded my cap for a visor then pulled out what I needed for the next loop: long-sleeve shirt, two hand held lights, headlamp, five more gels, another sandwich, and a ClifBar just in case.
During my first loop I had consumed half a Powerbar, 6 gels, a bag of PowerBurst energy gummies, and four ClifBlocs (along with the sandwich and chips), along with drinking my bottle of Gatorade. Figured I’d be out longer this time so had a total of 7 gels, a bag of ClifBlocs, three ClifBars, a PowerBar, half a bag of PowerBursts, and another pbj sandwich. I refilled my Gatorade bottle and water pouch, packed my equipment up, did a once over, then secured my car. I thought about taking my jacket but thought, ‘Well the rain is getting lighter and I do see a few patches of blue on the horizon…nah, I’ll be okay without it.’ I informed PJ and John I was heading out and gave Clem a high five in exchange for a bag of chips before proceeding back out.
Just as I was making my way past the guard dogs and storage bins, Brenda comes barreling out of the trailhead with Ryan in close pursuit! We exchanged salutations, with Ryan jokingly telling me I was going too fast. Found Shaka about 400 m behind Ryan looking very pleased and somewhat enjoying the rain and mud! Way to go Bro! Habu was about 10 to 15 minutes behind him still smiling and enjoying the trails! Amazing!
I got up the switchbacks and ascended the three hard hills at a quicker pace than before, even stopping to congratulate Heather at the picnic table as she began her descent and completing her loop. That was when things turned well…messy! The ground had become sooo saturated the mud literally engulfed your foot all the way to your ankles, often threatening to steal your shoes! At one point as I was coming down one of the twisting ascents, my leg sunk up to mid-calf and I had to use my arms to pull it free! In struggling to gain some foothold in the mud, navigate around the mud and water patches, and ascertain where I was, I got disoriented and forgot what section was coming up. I began thinking I was slowing down and I was tiring out, when in reality I was maintaining the same pace! I just had not remembered the order of the landmarks and sections due to my state of frustration with the mud and increase in rainfall. I got to Rob’s in 2 hours and was back to traversing the singletrack over the ridgeline in the same time as before (at 2 hrs and 30 minutes)! Upon realizing this I settled down and decided it was time for a little reward! Grabbing a chocolate chip peanut butter ClifBar, I casually walked for a good five minutes of the trail out to Peacock, enjoying a midafternoon snack.
About half way to Long Road, the rain was still not letting up and the winds were beginning to pickup. I felt the familiar sensation I had gotten in Janauary, tinges of cold entering my muscles, major shivering in my arms and shoulders, pensiveness in my thoughts as well as a feeling of despair. I then stopped to switch out of my wet shirt and get my long sleeve on, much better though it would be soaked by the time I began making my way back up Long Road. Oh well. I decided to deal with that when that point came and jogged the rest of the trail, greeting the leaders as they began making their way back to the Kealia trail then finishing up.
It was about 4:45 pm by the time I got out to the beginning of Long Road and 5:15pm when I got to the Peacock Flats gate. The rain had created a good mist and it was getting a bit dark, but not where lights were needed (though many of the leaders had already put theirs on). In attempting to jog down Long Road, I found that my legs were so tight from the cold, I couldn’t summon the strength to get them moving again. Just before the first water tank going down, I encountered Fish and Marian heading back up. Fish checked in with me, noticing I seemed less enthused. After informing him that I was feeling the ‘Iceman’ returning, both of them told me to ‘just keep moving and don’t think negatively…I had 15-miles left to go and I was in terrific shape..don’t worry about running just do the power walk!’
As I got a little over halfway down, I began to hear and see things. Movement in the pasture on my left, someone calling me from behind….oh boy! I’ve often heard that during ultras many competitors hallucinate and hear things…wow guess this an ultra!!! Several posts and small trees got mistaken as people cheering for me…even thought I saw a menehune, nope that was a small post by the open storm drain! Woooahhh!!!!
I got to the bottom of Long Road around 6:30pm (12 hours, 30+ minutes accumulated time), dragging my shivering behind in and feeling pretty unsure about what I could do to warm up. Cheryl felt sad about not having anything warm to give but did massage my arms to get the blood flowing, then passed me two good sized hunks of peanut butter & jam bread and another bag of chips. Ernest helped get my hydration bag off, fill it up with Gatorade, then pull out my lights. Heather who had been hanging out, informed me that Habu had decided to do some extra mileage and had set back out to do just the main upper loop (which he later told me proved to be more than he thought it was supposed to be). He had just called and told her he was in and was gonna leave after cleaning up a bit. She had also picked up some musubis for Shaka and I. Seeing that I was shivering, she quickly got her jacket off and got it on me. Ahhhhh…instant warmth!!! They got me suited back up and on my way. Rob had just gotten back from closing up ‘shop’ on the loop and told me that Brenda, Ryan, Johnny, Rex, Devon, and Mike M. were the last on the trail.
As I headed back out, I could see the various lights coming down the mountain side, though they were a bit obscured by the misting rain (still going). I was about a mile out when Brenda came by followed closely by Ryan and Johnny (all trading words of encouragement). Just as the ‘world went black’ save the small specks of road illuminated by my lights, my phone went off. Half thinking it was either Maniacles checking on our progress or Heather calling to tell me that Johnny wanted the jacket, I pulled the cell out and answered…it was Laura K (aka Frayed Laces)! Just trying to talk a few sentences was a bit challenging as my teeth were still chattering from the wet shirt underneath the jacket. However I was very excited to hear another person’s voice in the dark…at least I knew it wasn’t a hallucination or voices in my head! She was calling to see how I was gonna run the Niketown 30k the next morning. ‘Well right now I’m concentrating on navigating in the dark up Long Road and trying to remember all of the landmarks and route back to the Kealia trail…sorry kiddo, the 30k is the furthest thing from my mind right now!’ Huh, was her first reaction (think she thought I was losing it or something), then she remembered what we were up to…yup, I have 11+ more miles to go….yes, I am still running, errr jogging…okay walking. No, fo’ real…Hey Brenda, Ryan!...really they just ran by to the aid station and I just left…Hey it’s Shaka! Dude, Laura says Hi!! (Shaka yells out ‘Hi!’ over the phone).’ Laura conversed me for the better part of 15-minutes of the beginning of the ascent up Long Road. Though it was sounding like a dazed and confused person jabbering to someone more sane, it was great to have the conversation and get my mind off my present situation. After hanging up, I began to see lights out of the corner of my eye..oh boy, here come the hallucinations again. Five minutes later, a pair of lights came right at me…crap…oh it’s Devon. Alright buddy keep it going! It’s amazing what a little company can do for you! Mike M. followed a couple minutes later, we stopped for a few moments to shake hands. He then warned me that the upper area was becoming pretty iffy, the clouds and misting rains were moving in so visibility was be very hard. Alright! Thanks Mike! Oh boy!
As I tried pushing up the road, my usual power walk was more like a trudge up the hill. I felt a lot more disoriented in not being able to see exactly where I was and the extents of the road…knew I had zig-zagged quite a few times across it. Felt the road curve and a few inclines…okay so where are those water towers?!?!?! After what felt like over an hour (actually was just under) I saw some reflective material in the middle of the road…it’s a gate!! But which one? I then saw the signs for Peacock Flats! Wow I’m here! Did I pass the hard section of Long Road already?!?! I then attempted to shine my lights past the gate and could not see a darn thing beyond 5 feet in front of me! Oh- kay!
I really felt pretty uncertain about continuing on in the dark, I had a couple of times where I ended up on the side of the road, almost coming totally off it. I didn’t wanna end up somewhere I shouldn’t. Despite the jacket, the light rain and winds were making me cold again. Being alone up there wasn’t in my best interest at that point…on the H.U.R.T. loop, yeah, I’m okay there..here NO WAY! I pulled out my phone and called Heather to find out where Shaka, Brenda and Ryan were in terms of time when I left. She told me that they were at least 35 to 40 minutes behind me, they all left together. Rex was not too far behind…and he was running a bit! I then attempted to call Brenda and Johnny on their phones, no answer from Shaka and Wah had Brenda’s phone. Well just gotta wait…began walking and jogging in circles about the mauka side of the gate, checking my watch every so often and hoping the batteries in my lights wouldn’t give out. Exactly 35 minutes later I thought I saw two pairs of lights far down the trail, then they disappeared for a moment, then came back up. ‘BRENDA! RYAN!’ No answer. All of a sudden the trail seemed to light up VERY brightly and there was a loud whoosh! Is that a truck?
The sound ended up being the wind blowing through the valley below. The lights were Brenda and Ryan! Yes!!! After yelling out to them and attempting to jump up, I re-iterated my predicament and asked if they minded a third with them. They were both very happy to have me along with them…the more the better!
Though we first thought we were moving along rather slow, we were actually making very good time. We had already passed the hardest part of ascending Long Road (though we never saw the water tanks) and were back on the jeep trail 10-minutes after meeting up at the gate! As we sloshed about in the muddy trails and kept an eye out for signs of where we were, we conversed about things we wanted to do once we were finished….taking a long luxurious hot bath and soaking, curling up with the dog, and anything but running this course anytime in the next few months were several answers (you can guess who said what)!
We continued moving at a steady pace, stopping a couple times for no. 1, then keeping up the tempo. Rex came flying out of the darkness like the Batman, he checked up on us and gave us words of encouragement…then he was gone…I mean he was really moving like he just started the event!!!
We got back to the Kealia trail faster than we anticipated and even were at the picnic table in no time! Our descent down the switchbacks was a bit rugged, including a couple slips, spills, and many calls of slight pains as we tried to get the proper footing and keep eye to foot coordination. Several areas had been reduced to mud bogs and many rocks loosened.
As the trail slope began to flatten, we realized ‘the worse is over, we’re almost through!’ In coming out of the fencing at the trail head, we celebrated with long congratulatory hugs and thanking each other for getting us all through. We triumphantly strode toward the canopy at the parking lot, the lights shining there beacons of celebration! Wah came out to us halfway and gave us all hugs and joined in our moment! Ernest also came up and congratulated us about 200 meters out, and joined in the procession to the finish. He then had us look up the mountain and we could see Shaka and Devon making their way down the switchbacks! Despite the warning of being quiet, I could not resist and let out a whoop of excitement for Brother Shaka as I knew he was gonna be finished and well within the time limit!
I didn’t hear our official time from John but stopped my chrono a few minutes following our finish…16:57:05! My second loop took me 9 hrs and 44 minutes. I had anticipated about 8hours to 8:30 but having the company of Brenda and Ryan was well worth the wait. John, PJ, and Clem congratulated us and offered some very good pizza that the Huffs’ had brought. Johnny finished about 15-20 minutes later, very happy and feeling triumphant as well, though he was very anxious to get home shower and hit the sack!
Much thanks should go out the H.U.R.T. gang, especially John & PJ, Cheryl/’Catra’, Clem, Rob, and Wah for doing the aid stations and time keeping; Gordon, Larry, and Don for devising this (mad) event, coordinating the use of the trails and airfield, getting the DLNR permitting, and marking the trail so well! Despite the conditions, the event went along very well! All the participants should be proud of what they accomplished, moreover feel that they also helped each other to do so. What I have always noticed about the H.U.R.T. events is that though there is some competition, everyone is so supportive on each other not matter what place, speed, or time you are in. It’s all about finishing and having a great time! For Shaka, Habu, Brenda and I, this was THE LONGEST distance we’ve ran in a single event to date (Ryan has done the 100k for the 2008 H.U.R.T. 100). I’m very proud to have been able to participate in this event and been in the company of all that participated.
People will often bring up names like Carnazes when the word ultrumarathon is brought up. True he’s done some pretty impressive things and won his share, however my first thoughts will always be of the awesome group of people that I’ve had the honor and pleasure of sharing the trails with during all the H.U.R.T. events!. As I mentioned before, I never liked ‘racing’ on the trail and it’s been where I have had the most fun and experienced a lot…wanna keep it that way for quite some time.
My Mahalo list is quite extensive: Fish, Gordon, Larry, Bob McC and Huddy for plethora of trail advice; John and PJ for refusing to let me NOT enter the 100; Marian for keeping me entertained on the main loop; my two angels, Cheryl and Wah, who made sure I was well fed and in the proper spirit; Brother Shaka for getting me to get out and do the practice loops and really think about what I needed to do for this; Heather for all the support, company on the trails, and use of the jacket (what a lifesaver!); Brenda and Ryan, for company not only during the event but also in training (next is H.U.R.T.!), and the constant support and words of encouragement; Ernest for not letting me think about stopping longer and refilling my water pouch; Maniacles, for the constant words of encouragement and sage advice in extending my weekly distances; Ray, for all the support, testing of products, use of his store as a second home, and the endless training and racing advice; the Essenbergs for being my second (or third) family; my two trail sisters, Elisa and Amy, (they’ve never met each other) though both having moved back to the continental US, the times I spent with them doing the various trail runs will never be forgotten…hope we can do more soon; Laura K/Frayed Laces, for the ‘call’…misery loves company!, still waiting for ya to ‘get out there’; and most of all to both my entire Runners’ HI Ohana and the H.U.R.T gang for the constant support, encouragement, and great times together! Though the event was during just that single 20 hour period, the adventure to get there started in January and all of you have been instrumental in getting me to this point and beyond!

The Shakaman Files: Peacock Flats 54-miler...what an experience!!

2008-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

The following is one of four race reviews on the H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats 54-miler that took place on Saturday, October 25th 2008. Under rainy, windy, and muddy conditions, 28 intrepid runners took part in an exceptionally challenging event. Here's my bro's review. As aforementioned in the previous blog this was the furthest we (he, Habu, and I) have ran to date. Awesome job and congrats! Will be savoring this one for quite some time!

So where do I begin...
Just a warning...This is a lengthy report so when you have the time...
To just read my Peacock 54 miler report, go down about midway where you see the first sentence in ORANGE. The first section explains what lead up to my decision to do it.
It all began when HURT put out their race calendar earlier this year. The very last event listed was this Peacock 54 miler. I just shook my head and said to myself: "I won't be doing that one!!!"
I eventually heard through the grapevine that last year was the first time for this run and that only two people finished: Gordon Lau and Ed Bugarin. Very few people on this island are tougher than these two.
Well fast forward to the Maunawili 22 miler. On a Maunawili training run while going DOWN to the turn around, Heather, Mark and I were chatting about the Peacock 54 miler. We were considering it as we were leisurely running downhill. Funny how our attitudes changed on our way back UP to the Pali lookout. As we were huffing and puffing, we thought that maybe the 54 miler is not a realistic goal after all. If anything, maybe we'll just do 1/2 the distance, just one loop.
Fast forward to late August and the Red Rabbit (Gary Marr who now lives in Washington State) is quickly gaining on me in overall marathons completed (We Marathon Maniacs are a little competitive in that sense). I figure I had to try and stay ahead of him somehow. Some of us decided not to do Portland and the only other race on the horizon to consider was the Peacock 54, basically the distance of more than two marathons. At this point I had never been on the course so I had no idea what the ultra entailed and the farthest I have ever gone was the HURT Run to the Sun. Looking at Gary's upcoming race schedule, I was basically screwed. The weekend of the Maui Marathon, we were tied and the following week he passed me and he continues to add more marathons under his belt. Washington State is Marathon Maniac country and there are marathons almost every week in the surrounding area. Why bother doing Peacock now? I will not be able to catch the Red Rabbit! For some reason though, I still was interested in doing it.
Now the next thing I needed to do was to actually make it out on the course and see what I will be getting myself into. For one reason or another I could not make it to the first two or three practice runs that HURT was putting on. Finally Heather, Jeff F. and I were able to make it to the September 27th workout. Just so happens it was the same day as Brenda's birthday party out in Waialua. The party was in the same area as the course so I told Ray that we will swing by when we were done.
There were 21 of us that morning who started off around 6:15am. The first thing we had to do was to go up 1.2 miles of rocky switch backs. Well about 7 hours into our run I get a phone call from Ray. He was checking on us being that I told him that we will probably be at the party around noon. It was around 1pm and I told him: "We're still running!" He said: "What?!" We both laughed. Heather and I made it back to the car a little after 2pm. Jeff was waiting patiently for us. It was a very tough, hilly and hot course. Some of the regulars say that it rarely rains out in this area. The first thing I noticed once at the car was the burning sensation in my eyes. The dust and sun really irritated my contacts. And the very first thought that came to my mind: "How the heck am I suppose to do this loop one more time???"
The following Saturday, I went out to Peacocks on my own and met up with others. I wanted to run 40 miles but I was not going to do it by myself. Fortunately someone else (Rex) wanted to do 40 miles as well so after the first loop, he and I went back up to do twelve more miles. This was the farthest I have ever gone. And the whole time, Rex was giving me pointers about pacing, hydrating, and other very valuable tips to have a successful event. It took us 13 hours to cover the 40 miles. My eyes again were very irritated and very bloodshot. And I asked myself: "How am I going to cover the 16 additional very hilly miles in the dark and by midnight?
With the third and final practice run (which was two weeks before the actual run) Heather and Jeff were able to come out again and we were able to bring Mike H (Habu) and Wily (Coyote) along with us. My goal was to do an additional 5 more miles to make 33 for the day. Well I really pushed doing one loop and I finished in 7 hours. But when I went back up for the additional 5 on my own, I died!!! I cramped, I bonked, and I had major contact issues. I learned a lot in those extra 5 miles: Take the first loop at an easy pace; constantly eat to keep up the energy; and do not use contacts for the actual run!!! I was very appreciative of Heather, Jeff, Mike and Wily for waiting for me!
The morning of Peacock I woke up at 1:25am. It was raining in `Aiea and being that it rarely rains out in the Peacock area, I made a last minute decision to bring along my contacts anyway being that I the decided to run with my prescription glasses.
As Heather, Jeff and I followed each other to the start, the rain followed us all the way to the start. There was a steady rain. I WAS SO HAPPY I DECIDED TO BRING ALONG MY CONTACTS!!!!! I quickly popped them in my eyes and got ready for the 6am start. Dry air, dust and sun were not were not going to be issues today to irritate my eyes and contacts.
I most likely had the heaviest camelbak. I started off with 100 ounces of water, 50 ounces of gatorade, three packs of clif shot bloks, three clif bars, 8 power gels, 23 salt tablets, my prescription glasses, tp, first aid pouch, headlight, flashlight and other little knick knacks. I wanted to make sure I was prepared for anything.
Certain sections were VERY MUDDY AND VERY SLIPPERY! About 4 miles into the run I had my first fall. Not a good sign. I scraped up my left knee and my left palm but nothing major. I quickly got up, used the water from my camelbak to rinse off the mud and continued on. I was initially with Ernest Tay, Brenda Yim, and Ryan Seto. At one moment I would be with them and the next moment I would be by myself. I always had to play catch up. Well I survived the first loop with just that one fall and got to the starting area around 1:30pm. I changed my shirt and debated whether to switch shoes. I chose to stick with the pair I had on and was back on the trail by 1:42pm. I had three time goals I needed to meet in order to finish by midnight. On my way to my first goal time of 5pm at the three way, I fell again along the single track area where if you fall either side, you were going down for quite a distance. Fortunately where I fell, there was a little area that kept me from going over. Well when I caught up with Brenda and Ryan for the last time, both of them slipped in the exact same spot as I did. I reached my first goal of 5pm at the three way. This gave me 3 hours to get to the end of the long road by the 8pm cut off time. I was on a jeep trail now and I was happy that I had another hour of daylight until I get to paved road. About midway to the paved road, the lead runner's were already on their way back. In the lead was Ben Cavazos followed by Rod H (Huddy). VERY IMPRESSIVE!!! At this point, I knew I had at the very least another 5 hours to go. I got to the paved road by the time it was dark so I got my headlight out and headed down long road to the last aid station. On my way down, I did not realize it but before I reached the aid station, I surpassed the farthest distance I have every gone of 40 miles.
As I reached the final aid station, I was greeted by Cheryl Loomis, Ernest Tay, Wah Berman, and HEATHER!!! She decided to volunteer for a bit after she did her one loop. It was nice seeing her. Jeff had just left the aid station and as we passed each other, he was talking on the phone with frayedlaces (Laura K.) Jeff was looking strong. I reached my second time goal of 7pm. I had 5 hours to cover 10 miles. Ernest decided that one loop was enough for him. I was surprised that he was going slow with me but found out that he recently had knee surgery and the cold weather was affecting his right knee. Well Cheryl gave me something to eat and told me that I ONLY had 10 more miles to go. Earnest helped me refill my water and gatorade. I changed into a long sleeve shirt and put on a windbreaker. I took everything I had left in my drop bag. I had 6 power gels, 2 1/2 clif bars, and 2 1/2 packs of clif shot bloks. Heather mentioned that she had a spam musubi for me for the end of the run but I asked her if I can have it now. As I was getting resupplied, Rex pulled in and he wasted no time and was back on the road very quickly! I left shortly after him. I was about to go the farthest I have ever gone and I will be doing it in the dark, in the cold, in the rain and most than likely all by myself! As I was heading back up, only two people were behind me: Devon and Mike M. I was one of the last persons out on the course.
About two thirds up long road, I looked down and I saw a headlight. This was either Devon or Mike. When I looked up, I saw a headlight. I was able to catch up with the light above and it turned out to be Rex. I stayed with him until we got off the paved road. He gave me one last piece of advice that proved to be very helpful. He asked if I had a flashlight and I did. So I had him get it out of my pack and the next thing I knew, he disappeared into the dark. I was all alone. The next 4 miles was the longest miles I have covered in my entire life! I could only see a few feet in front of me due to the rain, fog/mist and the shear darkness of the night. I saw a couple of centipedes along the trail. My biggest worry though was coming across a pig with babies. The only thing that I could do was to hug the hillside and use it as a guide. The only problem with this is that rocks were falling and sure enough there were rocks on the trail that were not there earlier. I had no choice though because the other side was the down slope. What seemed an eternity and way more than 4 miles, I finally reached the three way. I had 2.7 miles to go. I needed to make sure that I did not miss three major turns in which I made successfully. It was the section between the last left turn and the picnic table that I got turned around a bit. It was VERY HARD to see at this point and I made three wrong turns. Fortunately in this section, the only turns were dead end dirt piles used to keep the road clear. I made my last time goal of 10:30pm at the picnic table which was the start of the very last section: the switch backs back down to the finish line. I had 1 1/2 hours to complete it.
Well right when I passed the picnic table and made my first turn on the switch back, I fell for the third time. It was when I got back on my feet that my calves cramped for the first time. I was able to walk it off and then I was on my way down to the finish line. Luckily it stopped raining so I only had to deal with the slick rocks and very uneven terrain. I TOOK MY TIME and safely made it to solid flat ground. I jogged the final section and was met by several people yards before the finish line. Cheryl jogged next to me. I jokingly said to her: "Ah...That was kind of hard" As the HURT saying goes: A`ole makou e ho`o hikiwale kela!Rough translation: We wouldn't want it easy!
I finished around 11:12pm. The official results have not been posted yet but I believe I was second to the last. I am so happy that I was able to complete the run and complete it in one piece.

http://www.hurthawaii.blogs.com/

The results should be posted on this website soon. Also, you will see other stories, two in particular from Mike M and Devon. I posted a comment on Devon's story so just scoll down the bottom of his story and you'll see the tail end of my report.

I have so many people to thank but the two who really helped me were HURT veterens Cheryl Loomis and Rex V. Jeff F. was very supportive and believed in me the whole entire time that I would be able to finish. I would like to thank Heather because she is the person who she is! I would like to thank Ray and the entire Runner's Hi Ohana for providing the base I needed to get through this very tough Peacock 54 (56) mile run.

Aloha,
Shaka
p.s. I forgot to mention that I just finished the Peacock report from Ray's as we're sipping on a couple of cold one's and eating poke!!! This has been my foundation that carried me through my recent marathons and definitely through this ultra run!!!

Runners' HI Update...A LOOOONG Weekend!

2008-10-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, October 25 & 26th, was perhaps the busiest in terms of not only the Ohana participating in various events but as Maniacles reports "There were 24 different marathons across the US last weekend."
On continental U.S. both our East Coast Ohana of Stroller Mom & Dad as well as Laura & Jason have been keeping quite busy. Stroller Mom participated in the 33rd annual Marine Corps Marathon, while Dad took the kids out on the Gobblin' Gallop:
On this end, I paced my friend Kyrah at Marine Corps today. It was slow going for both of us, she hasn't had quite the training she wanted since she had her daughter in May. But we set out to have a great time and achieved that goal in excellent fashion. We met goal two of finishing and eventually goal three of coming in under six hours. Sure, we would have liked to be faster, but we both enjoyed the race. It's sort of a first for me, side by side coaching someone through a marathon (Dan's first marathon was my only other experience), I was really flattered that she trusted me to get her through.We had spectacular (!!!) weather. Cool at the start (we didn't toss our long-sleeved T's until mile 4 where we had an incredible view of the Potomac river and Georgetown shrouded in fog). It warmed up, but wasn't nearly as warm as Baltimore or AF. There was enough of a breeze to keep us comfortable, that breeze was at our backs for the last two miles. Huge change from yesterday's rain showers.So a new marathon experience for me.
Dan did a Gobblin Gallop with the kids (5K) and had a great time. Kids even went in costume.
The 5k sounds fun...any treats? Gels, ShotBlocs, and energy shots make great Halloween candy substitutes for endurance athletes!
Laura reports that both she and Jason will be quite busy in the forthcoming months as yet another Marathon Maniac is in the making:
Jason and I decided to go up to Atlanta on Thanksgiving day for the Weather Channel Atlanta Marathon. I'm planning on running the the full and he's going to do the half. I've really stepped up the mileage these last two weeks from what I was doing. Hopefully, I'll stay injury free and finish before the 5 hour cut off!:) Now, I haven't told Jason this yet, but I think if I do Atlanta, and then the Aviation Museum Marathon in Warner Robins, and then Run with Donna Marathon in Jacksonvill, FL -- I could achieve Maniac Status. :) I can't believe I'm actually considering it, but we'll see.
Good luck (future) Maniac Laura! Guess we have to work on Jason next!!! HEHEHE!!!

On the Northwest, da Red Rabbit is still living it up in the capitol of the Maniacs (WA). He just did his 'sevententh marathon (the Tri-Cities Marathon) of the year today (Sunday, 10/26) but you can tell Shakaman I stayed three ahead (of him in the MM total marathons ran to date). I ran with a few Maniacs #30 Diana , SrLopez ,Pigtails Ken Briggsand a bunch I did not know. It was cold and windy I dont know my official time but itwas around 3:46 and third in my age group.'
Man is on a mission!!! Next month, Brother Mark (aka da Rock) heads up there and will be doing a 50k with RR...ohhh, RR almost forgot to mention to Mark that this will be all on trails and with only one aide station!!! Woops! You Maniacs!!

On the homefront in O`ahu, this past weekend was no walk, errr run in paradise as the heavens opened up and constant rains soaked the island. Not that we didn't need (the state is at or very near drought conditions), but the constant soaking did cause a few snags and complaints from a few of the Ohana. On Saturday, 10/25, the H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats 54-miler had it's first 'run' as an 'open' event to any up to the challenge. On Sunday, 10/26, the second to the last of the HM Readiness Series, the Niketown 30k, took place. The Ohana was well rep'd in each. We'll go from shortest distance to longest

Niketown 30k - Race #4 in the Marathon Readiness Series
Sunday, October 26th at Kapiolani Park - 5am start
From Maniacles' report, things went pretty well as by Sunday the rains were not as bad and spirits not as dampened:
It was humid early in the run until the showers arrived (but no complaints about the weather lest our Peacock runners call us wimps!). Despite the weather there was a good turnout with many regulars as well as many new faces among the crowd of 823 finishers. Few stayed to see Carole, Judith and Tom claim their AG awards as the rain put a damper on the post run festivities. Representing the Ohana this morning were Alison, John S, Bob, Matt, Glen, Laura K, Alfredo, Mike G, Tom, Mark, Roger, Marge, Vera, Jay, Lynda, Jerelyn,Carole, Wyatt and myself.
As we gear up for the busy fall running season, it is always a pleasure to share the joys of running with our Ohana. Train safe.
Here are the results.

H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats (Trail) 54-miler, Dillingham Air Field (Mokuleia)
Saturday, October 25th @ 6am
This was the first time the H.U.R.T. gang opened this race to the general public. Prior to this, the organizers/trailblazers (Gordon, Larry, and Don) had deemed the course too brutal and iffy to enable others, except the most capable to attempt this. Moreover due to the amount of time that they (H.U.R.T.) could keep the airfield gates open (originally only til 10pm), the cutoff time was at 16 hours. After talking with the airfield caretaker and DLNR, the cutoff time was increased to 20 hours (finish by 12am, Sunday morning) and permits were obtained to increase the number of people.
A basically the course is two-'loops' about the Kealia and Kuaokala trail systems. Starting at the Dillingham Airfield parking area, a single loop takes you the aforementioned trails that form a loop. These are primarily wide jeep trails and a stretch of single-track trail along the Waianae Mountain Range. Prior to returning to the start, runners segway out to Peacock Flats then proceed down 'Long (asphalt) Road' to the aide-station/turnaround. Completion of the loop is a return back up 'Long Road' and along the Peacock Flats trail to the intersection with the Kealia trail and back to the airfield. This was previously measured as 27-miles but according to recent GPS records is actually 28..go figure!
A basic requirement or piece of advice were for participants to take at least one tour of the loop to assess it and get a feel of it. Even after one practice 'run' at it, Shaka and I had some skepticism about it.
Event day, four intrepid members of the Ohana showed up at the airfield: Heather, Habu-sama, Shakaman, and myself. Heather & Habu had goals of just doing a single loop (though the latter decided otherwise). Shaka and myself were 'all in' for the entire distance! Three words describe the entire day....rainy and muddy! Previous training sessions on the course were all in the hot, humid climate that is usual to the Kaena/Waianae side, now all prep for such conditions were thrown out the door.
The four of us all have many stories and experiences to share. Basically, Heather braved the entire rain and mud (and looked like the warmest and driest of all of us in her jacket), completing her loop in more than satisfactory time. Habu went the distance and then some doing another 15 miles, to make it 42 for the day. Shaka and I continued our quest into the wee dark hours, both completing well within the cutoff time. During the next few blog entries, I'll post everyone's comments and experiences. The HURT website featured a few great posts including Devon's very inspiring and motivational post on the HURT-site, along with comments/congrats/mahalso from Don. Many of us also echo Mike M's sentiments and comments in welcoming back Ben C.!
No matter what the biggest thing is that everyone finished and got back safe. For Habu, Shaka, and I this was perhaps THE LONGEST the three of us have ever ran all in a consectutive time (until the H.U.R.T. 100)! It was a sense of accomplishment that all who took part in will never forget!

Great job to all in running a very successfull and for a few 'bittersweet' weekend of events! Take care, stay safe, and above all ALOHAS!!! See ya on the roads and trails!!!

Let the H.U.R.T.ing begin!!!

2008-10-22T01:44:00.000-07:00

With the official start of the fall running season is the advent of many of the Ohana's training. Many will be getting their final distance runs in to get ready for the Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, December 14th. For several members of the Ohana, this will mark their first marathon ever!!! There are, however, a few that have decided to add a little extra twist to this. A few have embarked on doing the December Double of the Las Vegas (12/7) & Honolulu Marathons (so far the list being Frayed Laces, Denise, Maniacles, and Shaka...think there are a few more). There is also the H.U.R.T. 100 in January being run by two of the more insane (or masocistic) members of the gang. However a few souls couldn't wait this long and have fast-forwarded thier efforts to this weekend which will be a culmination of all of their training and knowledge to date.
On Saturday, October 25th at 6am, begins the H.U.R.T Peacock 54-miler (really a 56-miler)! As seen in previous blogs, this event takes place out on the Kaena/Waianae side of O`ahu. Starting at the parking lot of Dillingham Airfield, runners sally-forth up the Kealia & Kuaolala Trail into the northern section of the Waianae Mountain Range. Offering spectacular views of both the North Shore and Waianae side of the island, participants must concentrate on pacing, hydration, route, and above all time (completion cutoff time of 18 hrs...12am)! Though these trails are only about 14 miles, runners must segway off 4/5 of the way through down another trail leading to Peacock Flats then head down a 'long (concrete) road' to the aid station/turnaround at the base of the mountains. Thereafter, participants make their way back up to the Kealia trail and back down to the start. This would be the completion of one 27-mile (measured by Garmin to be 28+) loop. Those still game (or wanting more pain) head back out for another loop to complete the entire race course.
Shaka and myself have decidedly taken up the challenge to complete the full race. Three others of the Ohana, Heather, Wily/Klepto-Coyote, and Habu-sama, will be embarking on half of the odyssey...though that is half more than anyone else that isn't doing it.
For our more sane and normal members, there is the Readiness Series 30k on Sunday, 10/26, starting at 5am. While many of our 'rookie' marathoners have already done this distance, this race is a good way to examine one's progress and either affirm or set new goals for the Honolulu Marathon. For some of the veterans, it's an event to see old friends and acquaintences as well as renew friendly rivalries...all in all, a great day to go out and run 18-miles.
For those participating in either or both events, good luck!
Whatever you all do this weekend, get out, be safe and have fun! Alohas!!!

A Very Special Day...Val's Ohana!!

2008-10-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Kapi`olani Park - Sunday, October 19th

"ALOHA HAS NO BOUNDARIES"

-Motto of the 2008 Race for the Cure

Near the end of 2007, one of our Ohana, Valerie, was diagnosed with cancer. As she went through treatment, the gang showed an outgrowth of support visiting her website and checking with her husband, Timm about progress. Through much challenges and tribulations, Val has successfully completed her treatments and returned to running regularly with the Ohana!

To celebrate her victory and return to running, as well as support those diagnosed and undergoing treatment, a good number of the Runners' HI gang signed up for this very inspirational race. Today however we didn't run just as an ohana but as Val's Ohana!!!

As we gathered up to meet up with Val, Timm, & George,

a quick observation of the area showed that this was not about a running race but rather a race to find a cure for cancer. Many participants wore shirts and signs dedicating the race to a loved one. Moreover there was little talk of people attempting to win the race or run hard (other than to put in a good workout). This was a celebration of life and supporting all affected by this disease.

As the race proceeded, we formed a loose group with a rather easy pace, though this soon broke up as people found their own individual groove to run at. The awesome spectacle I notice as I examined the droves of people making their way around the park were all of the different types of people and support groups! The Runners' HI singlets were in full effect with flecks of yellow, pink, and lime-green amongst the other runners. There was also a sighting of the 'Pink Energizer Bunny' in full Runners HI regalia (perhaps akin to the Red Rabbit?) though no real proof has been brought forth.

At the finish, we all gathered to cheer Val as she crossed the finish

line! At the post-run ceremony, survivors were recognized and cheered for over twenty minutes! It is amazing how many lives this illness has touched but more importantly the awesome strength of these survivors! All in all, a spectular day to celebrate Val's victory over cancer and spend with the everyone!

Everyone, especially the survivors who ran, were winners! Though Maniacles came out of this event with an added bonus, winning the grand prize drawing of roundtrip tickets to any destination that American Airlines flies too!!! So what is he going to use them for??? Go to the Boston Marathon? Find an exotic marathon/ultra-run to do?

"I'm gonna take my wife on a nice vacation!" Okay, is this the real first Hawai`i Marathon Maniac speaking?!?!

In participating in this event, it shows not only what great friends we've become but also how much of a real Ohana we are!

Here's a few other pics taken during the event:

Pre-run pic with Frayed Laces & Brother Shaka!

Photographing runners while running....still working on the methodology!!!

Mahalos Volunteers!!! You folks were awesome!!!

It's the Flyin' Hawaiian...err, Habu-sama!!!!

Post-race smiles for Val! Congratulations!!!

Aloha all! Mahalos for being part of the best running Ohana!

Haleiwa Triathlon

2008-10-05T23:24:00.000-07:00

After a great summer full of triathlon races, several of the Ohana took part in the fun out in Haleiwa. Omitted from last year's itnerary (due to issues with the timing keeping company), it was a very awesome day in welcoming this event back. Didn't get all the times and placings but thanks to Carl & Lynda, here's a couple of pics. Hope all had fun! One more tri left this year, the Tradewinds Triathlon in mid-November!!!

Mainland Marathon Madness!!!

2008-10-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks have seen a spike in the 'marathon-meter' for our mainland Ohana as well as several of our gang heading up to do 'a few'. Stroller Mom & Dad as well as the Red Rabbit have been pretty busy stretching their Marathon Maniac lists (and making several here pretty jealous)!!!

US Air Force Marathon - 20September2008
Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
The 12th running of this event gave Stroller Mom & Dad a few things to think about. Here's 'Mom's' quick race review:
The AF marathon went well. We were concerned about the course changes, they turned out to be all for the good. It was a very warm day (didn't need a t-shirt at the start to stay warm), but cloud cover towards the end of the run helped. We were slow, much slower than either one of us wanted to be. But summer hasn't been all that great for either one of us training-wise (Stroller Dad's heel is still bothering him, I did some time in the hospital a few weeks back).So we made it a date marathon and kissed at every mile marker. Picked up a few followers in the process, it was that happy a race. We also came across people I've worked with in the past, people we've raced with in the past (to include one gentleman from Hawaii who remembered Dan always passing him with the stroller). My watch (with autopause) said 4:59, chip time was 5:10 and change. So eleven minutes in potty stops, it adds up.

Lake Chelan Shore-to-Shore Marathon - Sept 20, 2008
Lake Chelan, Washington
Being a resident of Washington State, home of the Marathon Maniacs, definitely has it's advantages for those with the running bug! The Red Rabbit has now accumulated 46 marathons lifetime...and counting!!! Having already bagged in 14 so far, RR turned in 4:01:54, good enough for 2nd in his AG!

MyoMed Ragnar Relay - Sept 26-27, 2008
Cumberland, Maryland to Washington D.C.
Stroller Mom & Dad were at it again, along with a couple (9, one got injured) of friends, doing a 183-mile relay:
We survived our relay run from Cumberland to DC (182 miles). Our team was mixed military and by virtue of being the only one in the category, we won. We wound up with eleven runners (our 12th broke his leg playing soccer), so I ran double legs. We had rain on and off, mostly for the second van (two vans leap-frogged, we did the first six legs, Dan's van did the next six, and so on for 36 legs) who also had two night-time legs, most of the hills, and most of the distance. But the runners in that van all asked for the hardest, longest, darkest uphill legs in the rain. So I delivered :)It was a challenge, but extremely well organized. We had way too much food, not enough sleep, and a lot of fun. It was a good mix of personalities.And Dan and I were extremely happy when both Chase and Grace headed to bed much earlier than usual Saturday evening after we got back!

Portland (PDX) Marathon - October 5, 2008
Portland, Oregon
Four of the gang ventured up to meet with R.R. (making this #47)to run this very fast and cool course! Many surprised themselves at the times they turned in!
Kat T- 3:59:01
Judith - 4:31:25
TC - 3:45:45 (BQ!)
Red Rabbit - 3:43:33 (BQ...again!)
Invincible Bob - 5:50:20 (PR!!)

Congrats all on a great bunch few weekends of racing! Stroller Mom and Dad have the Baltimore Marathon up next, and as usual the Red Rabbit will likely continue his string of weekend marathons! Keep up the running and great training!

Happy Birthday, Frayed Laces!!!

2008-09-30T14:28:00.001-07:00

Thought we'd forgotten, eh! Check out the blog (this is the anniversary of its genesis) of one of the youngest members of our Ohana as she endures through the nuances of balancing grad school, research, and training/racing in ultras, marathons, and triathlons! FrayLaces, a year in 'running' and more to come!

Tours on....2008 HBL Honolulu Century Ride

2008-09-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

Each year the Honolulu Bicycle League hosts two rides that invite the community at-large to participate in biking safety, awareness, and fitness. The second event, the Honolulu Century Ride, is by far one of the largest this side of the Pacific as it brings in hundreds of Japanese cyclists eager to tour the eastern and northeast shores of our island. Other participants came from Australia, the Mainland U.S. and even Europe (Italy) to take part in this annual ride! In all over 3,500 riders took to the streets of O'ahu from Kapiolani Park covering distances of 20-, 25-, 50-, 75-, & 100-miles.

Eighteen of our Ohana participated this year, dedicating the ride to Valerie and her family in her recovery efforts! Wearing yellow and pink ribbons (got more if anyone would like), we took to heart all that she's had to endure and spun in many miles.

Many took up distances of 20-miles (out to Hawai`i Kai and back) and 50-miles (to Kailua and back). About eight took on challenge of the full Century ride...100 miles...riding out to Swanzy Beach in Kaawa then retracing their tracks back to Kapiolani Park! No matter what distance was covered all agreed that the event was fun and worthwhile!Despite many inconvienences ranging from mixups with race officials not recording our team for the Iron Okole challenge (actually my bad), a forgotten bike helmet, various small injuries, and a few cases of poor riding courtesies, we all had fun and accumulated alot of stories. Many are vowing to do this event again next year with the intent of going further!

Like our running community, cyclists have many cliques and (training) groups of their own but they all come together to unify not only to promote the various aspects of riding but also to re-connect and meet others. This day saw not only that but the crossover of runners, cyclist, and people from all walks of life and areas of the world coming together to enjoy the simple aspects of life and enjoying a fun ride!

Readiness Series 25k (on a Saturday?) & H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats Preview or Hills, Hills, Hills and oh, More Hills!!!!

2008-09-30T11:12:00.000-07:00

Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher 25K
Saturday, Sept. 27th @ 5am - Kailua Beach Park
The 3rd race of the readiness series took many of the Ohana out to the Windward side of the island where they joined 500 other runners to take part in this inaugural race. As previously mentioned in other posts, there were alot of changes to the series including management, sponsors, and the race courses. This particular route proved to be no different. Runners assembled at Kailua Beach Park (previously it was held at Kailua Intermediate), then proceeded out and around Lanikai, back through the Kailua residential area then out to the Mokapu Peninsula, aka Kaneohe Marine Corps Station. There a small test was give in ascending what many say was a tough hill (this proved to be a big topic for this day).
There were many stories about this run, the winding about through the residential area, the location (limited parking), and the more scenic route than previous years. However the main topics were the hill and one of our Ohana falling. The main jist of this was that she (we'll keep her identity hush) was weaving a bit during the run then collapsed. One of the gang came to her rescue and helped her get back up. She had a few scrapes but was okay, however she doesn't remember the fall or what happened. Most are (and all indications seem to support) that she was becoming dehydrated and experiencing effects of the heat and humidity. As many of our veteran Ohana always say," Listen to your body and know what's going on." Glad to know that she's okay and is determined to get back on the road for the next race!

All had fun and are looking forward to the peak distance of the series, the Niketown 30k on Sunday (10/26)! Here are the results from Saturday's race. Congrats to Shelly C., Judith I., David C., Nick K., the Cos, and Maniacles for AG placings!

Preview to suffering: H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats 54-miler
Those of us in the Ohana that have done a majority of the Hawaii UltraRunning Team's trail series have thought the 'we've seen it all', 'been there done that'...with the exception of the H.U.R.T. 100. However a new race/event that has been put up for this year, the Peacock Flats 54-miler, has left only three people intrigued: Heather, Brother Shaka, and yours truly! On Saturday, while others were in the final miles of the Kailua 25k, the three of us set out to do a preview of the course - a single (27 mile) leg of the double 'loop' course.

After driving out to the Waianae side of the island (which proved to be an adventure in itself...yes, I take full blame for taking the wrong fork in the road), we met up with a large contigent of H.U.R.T. runners also training for the course (approx. 20, a record) at Dillingham airfield. After parking just off the course, all diligently began organizing their gear: hydration packs, nutrition, caps, etc. It was gonna be a hot one. As we set out we could all feel the heat and humidity setting in and it was only 6:20am...the sun hadn't even rose yet!

To summarize the course, runners ascend the Kealia trail using a
series of short switchbacks that connect up to the jeep trails. These makeup the main route of the course, a loop-like configuration through northern Waianae mountain range providing spectacular views of both the Mokuleia/Kaena Pt. areas as well as Waianae/Nanakuli. Other than a few very friendly pig hunters (w/ their dogs) and hikers, there are no other people along the area. Moreover, the isolation of the area provides a certain quaintness and spirituality that is so special in being able to listen and connect with nature (Maniacles would have loved to seen and heard the various birds inhabiting the area).

However the harsh reality of the course is that it is VERY tough and debilitating even for the most veteran runner! Did I mention there are hills...not just hills, ascents and climbs along the mountain ridges, many which were a bit sketchy at first. The heat and humidity provided yet another dimension for this run, we all made sure to continually hydrate and take in energy in whatever form possible. Perhaps one of the enduring parts of the course is the segway off from the trail loop, whereupon runners took a 7-8 mile jaunt down the mountains to the roadway to reach the 2nd aide station/stash area then retraced their way back UP to the main trail to complete the loop back at the start! This out-and-back leg comprises almost 1/2 of the entire loop! Totals for the day were 27.2 miles (per Mike M.'s GPS...Shaka and I had 27.8+) with a max elevation of 1,600 ft(asl)!
Despite it's toughness and the challenge to conquer the course time limit (16-18 hours), the unrelenting reason to do this is perhaps why we consider doing it: it's there and it's a challenge! H.U.R.T. events have never been necessarily races for many of us, rather they're times we can connect with other runners (whether trail or road) and find peace both within in nature and ourselves.
Much mahalos to all of the H.U.R.T. gang there who provided extra supplies and guided us in the right direction (Marian, Gordon, Cheryl, Rex, Larry, etc.)!

A Few Errors!!!

2008-09-26T02:06:00.000-07:00

Whoops! I may mild haste to do the past race postings I forgot two events that several of the Ohana took part in. My apologies to all who participated in them!

During the weekend of the Maui Marathon two of our new triathloners took part in the 10th annual Na Wahine Sprint Triathlon on Sunday, Sept 14th! The event is a female only race with three different events to choose from: a full sprint triathlon, a super-sprint tri, and a duathlon (run, bike, run). Anne & Lisa, who entered the full sprint tri, did extremely well and surprised themselves at how much fun the both had as well as the results! Don't forget this was the first time either of them had participated in a race without their coaches helping them and without major training! Awesome job ladies!
Anne has vowed to start getting serious for next year and is looking to plan a training regiment! Lisa also is looking to participate in additional tris next year! Oh boy, now I'm getting scared! Lookout here comes the Ohana Triathletes!

I though last weekend was void of any running events...wrong! On Sunday, Sept. 21st, was the Old Pali Road 4.4-miler. Several of the Ohana did this event including Carole, Cynthia and TC who all took AG placings! Here are the results. Congrats all!

The Readiness Series Kailua 25k will be held this Saturday at Kailua Beach (wonder how the parking will be?) with many of the Ohana entered. Good luck to all and hope to hear many stories on our Tuesday run! Brother Shaka, Heather, Kyle, and I will be embarking on some insanity in scouting out the course for the H.U.R.T. Peacock Flats 54-miler that same day. Though we've vowed to just cruise the entire way doing a good jog and power walking the hard hills, we're not discounting on how hot it will be!
Saturday will be Ray's beloved Brenda's bday, so at least we'll have much merriment to look forward to following the first day of the weekend's endeavors (at least for some of us)! Happy early Bday Brenda!
Sunday will be yet another early morning as many of the running Ohana become 'Breakaways' in riding in the 27th Annual HBL Century Ride! It should be fun as there are several groups doing the various distances! Hope all enjoy the ride and finish safely!

A Weekend with the Ohana

2008-09-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Despite no races taking place this weekend, the O`ahu gang remained busy. On Friday (9/19), we watched the much awaited movie appropriate for many runners at this time of year (especially for several of our Ohana)...'The Spirit of the Marathon'! Much mahalos for Timm V. for finding out when it was being shown in Hawai`i and the refreshements, Frayed Laces for suggesting we make a gathering of it, Maniacles for doing the organization, and the Invincible one (Bob) for his generous gift! Most of all, thanks all for those that could make it! It proved to be a very inspirational, enthusiastic, and heartwarming evening. With two of our gang in attendance embarking on their first marathons in December, the movie proved to get them even more spirited about the Honolulu Marathon. Many of the multiple marathoners found more incitement to run further marathons.

During our post-movie get-together at Blue Moon, comments and

discussions (all positive) regarding the movie was still abuzz. There

we surprised Ms. Frayed Laces with her 3rd place Maui Marathon award! Congrats!
One would think that with no race events coming up, it would be a relaxing weekend. Not such the case. FL and an 'anonymous' other cyclist embarked on a 60+ mile ride from Diamond Head to Kaneohe Bay and back (with a few detours). Several took to the roads and trails to do long runs. Be it running, cycling or swimming, training for the gang is not limited to just preparing for a single event or a window of time to get ready for one. We've found it helpful in maintaining our fitness and endurance (even improving it), a much needed stress reliever, and most of all a means of just being able to socialize and hang out.

See ya on the roads (or trails)!

Marathon Readiness Series and the Maui no ka owweee!!!!

2008-09-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

In another busy week, well actually month, many of the Ohana find themselves not having many weekends to do our leisurely group long runs. For the few weeks, many of the gang have been participating in the Marathon Readiness Series. Also 13 of the Ohana participated in the Maui Marathon this past weekend. The Red Rabbit has been going strong running yet another marathon that same day (and he's likely getting prep work done for another this weekend)!

2008 Marathon Readiness Series

In previous years the Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club (MPRRC) has been the main supporting group in hosting the annual (Honolulu) Marathon Readiness Series that many of us enjoy participating in. Though some take it seriously (racing the entire series for AG placing), perhaps the key thing many of all agree on is that it's a great way to not only get mileage and gauge progress, but also (re)connect with others in the running community. I truthfully testify that if not for the series, I would not have gotten to where I am now since this was how I met Maniacles, Shaka, Da Man, and the (legendary) Red Rabbit. I also learned about Runners' HI through the various packet pickups locations done at most of the running stores.

There was a major change however this year. Due to financial hardships and the lack of needed volunteers and support, MPRRC was forced to release the organization of the series to 808 Race, also known as Boca Hawaii. The first major change was the price increase ($25/event or $115 for the series). Though many loyal to MPRRC have decided to pass on the series, there has been a steady showing in the amount of participants taking part (MPRRC members were given a discount of $100 for the series). The series is a set of five races with each subsequent one increasing the mileage by 5km (3 miles). So far two of the races have taken place.

BLUE HAWAII Norman Tamanaha 15k

Sunday, November 17th - Kapiolani Park

The inaugural race for the new event organizer went off with a few bumps. The race start was moved up about 200m and there was some questioning to where to do packet pickup. However after the run began things really settled and many were very pleased with how it went. There were adequate amounts of aide stations each manned with a good amount of volunteers. That at the Kahala Aloha gas station (midpoint of the run) offered gels. The finish area was well stocked with refreshments with results posted in a timely manner.

Congrats to Ironmen Dave L. and Nick K., Carole, Jason F. and TC for AG placing, here are the results.

RUNNER'S HI 20k

Sunday, September 7th- Kalaeloa

Wow, now we had our own signature race!!! As always this was a multiple loop run, with many thinking that it would be the normal route from White Sands Beach but....surprise, surprise due to not being able to clear the event with the military (the original route ran near the military housing area), 808 Race had to change the course during the final week before the event day! Many arrived at the start to a VERY dark area, only a single spotlight was available to enable the crew to pass out timing chips and do last minute packet pickups and signups.

The course proved to be quite cool due to an earlier start time of 5:30am, though as it got warmer and humid as the day progressed. Some reported a slight problem remembering what lap they were on and getting bored seeing the same scenery for three loops.

Overall though, most had alot of fun with the new course as they were able to see others (such as the front leaders and those in back) giving each other added support in cheering each other on. Aide stations were very well placed with gels being generously given out (there were a few reports of hording).

Congrats again to Jason F., TC, Mike P., Carole, da Coz, IronNick, and Dave C. for AG placing, and all who took part. You can view the results here. Acknowledgement should also go out to Smooth G who did the Hickam Half Marathon the day before along with da Coz (results here)!

The Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher 25k (that's a long name) will be held next SATURDAY in Kailua. Should be interesting as not only is the race on a day earlier but the course winds through much of the Kailua residential areas!

38th Annual Maui Marathon

Sunday, September 13th - Kahului to Kaanapali

-- Much Mahalos to Brother Shaka for taking and supplying all of the pics!!--

For the past couple of years (forgot how many) Maniacles, Shaka, and Da Man have been mainstays for this race. Five years ago these three and Millertime shanghai'd me over to do this one and have been going every year since. The one thing that I've noticed is that it's ALWAYS been dry and NEVER has it rained. Last year proved to be a total fluke with cool temps and the trades helping things since once again the heat and humidity that has seemingly been synonymous with this race since the changing from February to September came about.

Brother Mark, Frayed Laces, and I did a first and took the Super

Ferry over. Though it did cut some expenses, we all had some motion sickness (though FL did catch up on alot of her beauty sleep). Invincible Bob got over earlier that morning...think he said he wanted to catch a few waves at Jaws or Hookipa, with WWII/WilyCoyote having arrived Friday to do the Maui Tacos 5K with Denise, Dave, and Gianni C.! Congrats to the family for all placing in the 5k and participating in the Front Street Mile! Maniacles, Heather, and Shaka came in next.

In meeting up at the 'expo' (more like just a packet pickup with a few travelling vendors), we hooked up with a few of our Hilo Ohana...Steve P. and Harvey N.! We got to meet with the legendary Bart Yasso!

Mark and I headed back to Kahului to pickup and stay with Da Man and WWI, hitting a snag in our planned pre-race dinner...Auntie Pasto's was closed for renovations!!! AHHHH!! Luckily we were able to bump into Cowboy Bill Connor who suggested a great local spot across the street from our hotel (at the starting area)! Mahalos!

Race morning was quite cool, though many could sense the upcoming day to come with the humidty setting in by 5am. As the sun rose about 30 minutes into the race, the VOG (volcanic fumes) also began to lift giving way to the warmth of the sun...this proved to be a major factor later in the race. Shaka, Mark, Steve, and I stuck together for the earlier miles of the race. FL, Maniacles, and WWI were the next loose group with Heather, Harvey, WWII, and Da Man following. The Invincible one just relaxed and enjoyed the day a good solid pace.

As we hit the hills around mile 9, I took off closely followed by Shaka. Though we never ran side by side for this race, knowing that we were in close proximity helped us push on in the upcoming miles. Mahalos for keeping me going Shaka!

By mile 18 (about 730am), the heat of the sun began taking its toll. Many began slowing down and began feeling miserable. There were a few thoughts of either walking or calling it quits. However there would be none of that...all continued on and finished with various feelings being felt.

Congrats to all the Maui gang for notching another one on the ol'

marathon belts! Got to meet many Marathon Maniacs as well as see our ol' buddy McLovin'! Perhaps the most noteworthy finishers were FL, Steve P. and Mike H. (of Kona). Steve BQ'd (again) running along with Mark E. overcoming both blockades of half-marathon walkers and an obnoxious female runner who refused to let them pass her (think she had some sort of male competitive complex going there)! FL despite feeling the BONK! and being hounded by yet another obnoxious runner (this being a male...think you got another admirer FL!) continued on and took an AG 3rd! Despite feeling remorse for not fulfilling her overall goal, this was her first marathon being healthy and injury free. Moreover this was her first time experiencing the heat and humid conditions that the Maui Marathon is (in) famous for. Mike H. ran with a humangous blister on his foot that we left us all with mouths agap when we saw it after!

Here are the results: 1-100, 101-200, 201-300, 301-400, 401-500, 501-600, 601-700, 701-808

While many are currently doing the Maui Owee, we all had a great time and shared many stories/experiences. Ah, the beauty of weekend island getaways...errr, races!

Good luck and much aloha to Stroller Mom & Dad at the AF Marathon, and the Red Rabbit at the Lake Chelan Marathon this weekend! Up next for those on O`ahu will be the Kailua 25k then the HBL Honolulu Century Ride next weekend! Many of the Ohana have already signed up for one if not both events. For two of the Ohana the quest begins for the H.U.R.T Peacock Flats (trail) 54-miler in October, which many say is one of the harder trails in the state.

Great job too all on the past events! Hope to see you all on the roads or trails soon!

Runners' HI Summer Recap

2008-09-01T23:45:00.000-07:00

Aloha all! So did again and fell behind on things. This summer has proven to be one of the busiest yet for the Ohana! Full of many events including highlights (PRs) and firsts for many! Our events haven't just included just runs but also distance swims, cycling, and triathlons!

Maunawili Out&Back 22-miler - Pali Lookout/Old Pali Road

Saturday August 2, 2008 (7am Start)

In keeping with our continued fun on the trails, several of the Ohana took part in the next of the H.U.R.T. trail race series. Though twice the distance and then some of the last trail race, the Kaena Point 10-miler, there was no lack in the amount of fun and sheer perserverance needed to complete this one.

Starting at the Pali Lookout, runners proceeded down the Maunawili

trail alongside the Pali Highway onto the Maunawilit trail. This would then switch onto the Waimanalo Demonstration Trail to take them out to the turnaround at the trailhead in the back areas of Waimanalo whereupon runners would head back to the Pali. As with the saying 'What goes up must come down', while the first half of the route was primarily downhill, runners had to now return uphill.

The primarily concern most runners were thinking of were making the return up to the start. However the real problem became having enough water to do so. The day began as cool and clear, but within a few hours gave way to hot and humid conditions. Luckily many of the valleys had cool breezes blowing through them. Runners were also able to view beautiful views of the Windward side of the island!

Many experienced cramps, dehydration, and heat stroke. Our own speedhorse Kyle, despite incurring a cut knee during the first mile continued to fly down the hill. However in ascending on the return, experienced cramps and dehydration around the 13th mile. Despite all the odds against him, he trudged on and completed. Other partipants included Shaka, Emily, and myself doing the entire route. Teaming up were Lynda (L1)-Heather (L2) and Team Essenberg - Marge (L1) & Mark (L2).

The finishing order can be viewed here. Much Mahalos to Marian and Neal Yasuda (race directors) and the rest of the H.U.R.T gang for the great times!

28th Tinman Triathlon - Kapiolani Park

Sunday July 20, 2008

One of the last triathlons of the summer proved to be an exciting initiation for many of the Ohana. Several of the regulars participated in the solo race including WWI, WWII/Wily Coyote, Smooth G, Frayed Laces, and the editor. An female team consisting of Anne (swim), Heather (bike) and Carole (run) was made, making this the first triathlon for the later two to participate in!

Overall great conditions were experienced with the water being relatively flat (small surf and easy currents) for the 750m out and back swim between Queen's Beach to the Natariom. A cool and clear morning made things even better for the 40k cycling leg from Kapiolani Park out to Hawaii Kai and back as well as the 10k run around Diamond Head.

Everyone had a great time including the editor despite being stung by a stray jellyfish and having a very uncomfortable ride on a borrowed bike that was too big for him (Mahalos Ray)! Several of the Ohana took home hardware including Emily K. (6th Female Overall), Frayed Laces (3rd in the 25-29 Female AG) and the women's team (Runners' Tri), who won the female team category! See full results.

Many expressed much anticipation for next year's season! Surprise, surprise though...two more triathlons have been added: the Haleiwa Tri (10/05) and the Tradewinds Tri (??)!!

North Shore Swim Series

June 28 - August 9, 2008

During their triathlon training a couple of our Ohana came into their own and transmorgified into very strong swimmers! Smooth G, WWI, WWII/Wily Coyote, and Anne took to the water and became instant fish...well actually amphibians (as they do very well on land too)! The North Shore Swim series consisting of 4 swimming events of various distances took place from June 28 - August 9, 2008. Smooth G, WWI and Wily Coyote participated in most of these swims and did a spectacular job (not to mention also balancing their training for other events)! Here's the results:

Raging Isle Sprint - June 28th

1-mile swim from Sunset Beach to Pipeline

Cholo's Waimea Bay Swim - July 12th

1.2-mile swim at Waimea Bay

Surf n' Sea Chun's to Waimea - July 26th

1.6-mile swim from Chun's Reef to Waimea Bay

Surf n' Sea North Shore Challenge- August 9th

2.3-mile swim from Pipeline to Waimea Bay

2008 Duke's Ocean Mile Swim

Saturday, August 23rd - Waikiki Beach

Yet another swim that Smooth G & WWI took part in was the Duke's Swim, in honor of the late Duke Kahanamoku. Both sliced through the water with ease and had a great time! While no results were posted (even after this very late report), both were very pleased with their individual results! Awesome job guys!

H.U.R.T. Tantalus Triple Trek (50k) - Hawai`i Nature Center

Saturday, August 30, 2008

For the second year in a row four of us (Maniacles, Shaka, TC/Drag-on, and myself)returned to the trails of Tantalus to tackle what proved to be a very tough day. We were joined by Heather, and Mark E. as well as many of our trail friends from H.U.R.T. in doing the 10-mile, figure-8 loop three times (total 30-miles) within a 10-hour time limit.

In rising that morning to meet up at the front of Hawai`i Nature Center (at the base of the trail) around 4 am, we were awaken to the sounds of heavy rain (reminescent of last year's run). This proved to be pivotal in making some re-think their strategy for the course due to the conditions...lots and lots of mud!!! Now the race was an official H.U.R.T event (as Shaka had suggested John S. must have a direct connection with the rain gods)!

As we started off, all switched on their headlamps & flashlights to make the 'torturous' first climb up 'Pipe'/Center trail. This created a rather awesome spectacle with a steady line of lights from 45 runners streaming up the hill! Sorry no photos were made...

In short, this race proved to be as challenging as ever even after the rains had ceased. The clearing skies gave way to a very hot

and humid day, creating conditions that prompted many to take in extra fluids. Maniacles and I both suffered some mild cramping, but with help from our 'angels on top' were able to finish and notch another race in our Maniac logbook.

The surprises of the day were Shaka finishing within a sizzling

6:08...shaving over an hour off of last year!!! Despite a mildly sprained ankle and cramping, Maniacles came in with a strong 6:45! Mark E. who was sidelined from last year's race due to injury, came in 5-minutes later. Our other first time TTTers, Heather and Wily came in at 7:29 with big smiles on their faces! All overcame various adversities, most citing the mud and muggy conditions as being the main hurdles.
The full list of results can be viewed here.

Throughout many of these races, we look to achieve some type of goal be it competing with others, placing within their age group, or PRing. However as many of us have taken part in the various H.U.R.T events, we found it not necessarily as a race in that respect but a challenge to complete while also being to take in some awesome scenery. Perhaps the best aspect of doing these however is re-aquainting ourselves with all of our friends running the trails and establishing a sense of camraderie with others in attaining the goal we all have...finishing!

In achieving this, we also have others that have helped us. Much Mahalos to John S., P.J., the McCallisters, Cheryl L, and the countless other H.U.R.T. members who have put on the Trail Race Series! Especially big thanks to Aide Station #2 on Concrete Road: Wah, Lorie, Carole, Jerelyn, and the rest for the much needed salt/li-hing mui and refreshments that helped us, especially Les, Wily, and I complete this run! Was great seeing familar smiling and enthusiastic faces there!

Dick Evan's Memorial Bike Race (112-miles) -Hawai`i Kai Park-n-Ride

Sunday August 31, 2008

A while ago, a friend of mine (who would eventually be the one to win this bike race) had asked me about volunteering for this event. Since this would be a great experience to watch part of one of the big Island road races as well as give back to the community, I asked some of the gang to help out. Heather, Shaka, and I decided after TTT to meet up Sunday morning to pass out water bottles to the participants at the Temple Valley aide station.

Rewind the clock back to Saturday morning pre-TTT, Wily Coyote arrives in time to not only run the trail event but also informs us that he'll be entering not just the 112-mile road bike race but also swim the Waikiki Roughwater....weekend Ironman!!!

As the first rider passed through our aide station we were able to quickly discern how to pass out water bottles to speeding bikers. The first chase group of about 25 came in 40 seconds behind him and closing fast. Though a few bottles were dropped at first, we quickly caught on. By 11am most of the riders had passed, with the relative few still to come in danger of not being able to complete within the allowed time frame of 7-hours. Our station was now closing up. No Wily Coyote?!?!?!

The three of us grabbed bottles of water and gatorade and proceeded up toward Laie to look for him. As we approached Kualoa Ranch, a familar face rolled down the road at a steady pace. Though not at any speed that would enable him to catch the Road Runner, Wily Coyote was determined to keep going. In offering him the drinks and checking his status, he decidedly called it a day and we took him back to the start/finish area. He had risen up a 4am (6 hours of sleep after doing a 30-mile trail run) and ridden 81-miles around O`ahu with still a 2-mile swim to go the next day! Is this guy crazy or what??? Oh yeah, he's a Maniac!!!

Waikiki Roughwater Swim (2 nautical miles) - Queen's Beach to Ft. DeRussy

Monday September 1, 2008

Five of the Ohana entered this annual distance swim that unless the conditions are really bad (i.e bad surf, hurricane), the swim goes on! Timm V., Smooth G, WWI, and Wily Coyote (leg 3 of the Memorial Weekend Ironman) took to the water braving the high surf (3-5 ft faces)! Timm V., whom participated during the year only a handful completed the swim due to very strong currents and waves, said it was somewhat reminescent of that day though they were able to get out much further. All did an amazing job no matter what the results!

Great job to all! Congrats to all the Ohana where ever they may be for another summer of fun! Hope all fulfilled their goals! News along the electronic grapevine is that the Red Rabbit and TC have had a summer full of countless marathons! In fact RR has had one practically every weekend for August and September! Know that Stroller Mom & Dad will have a full report coming soon from the Air Force Marathon (Good Luck)!

Next up for the O`ahu Ohana is the Maui Marathon! The HM Readiness Series (already with Race #2 , the inaugural Runners' HI 20k, having taken place this weekend) is in full swing! Reports on all of this (and likely more) within the next few days!

Aloha all and see ya on the roads...and very soon trails!!!!

Blowin' up the Volcano...marathon!!!

2008-07-30T00:03:00.000-07:00

KILAUEA WILDERNESS RUNS/VOLCANO MARATHON - 26July2008
Volcanoes National Park, Island of Hawai`i
Aloha all! Been a while since the last post and have fallen a bit behind on things. Instead of trying to back track and cover all of the past few events, I'll get to the big event that took place this past weekend...the Volcano Marathon! As a 'reward' for her accomplishments - as you shall read below - I asked the former Marathon Maniac Groupie, Heather, to do a review on the race. However to just give a quick snipet on how things went, here's Maniacles' informative lowdown:

Aloha All!
The RunnersHI Ohana completed another successful neighbor island trek. Thirteen from our ohana enjoyed a weekend at Kilauea Military Camp, highlighted by successful Volcano marathons on Saturday. Marathoners included Ray, Shaka, Heather, Bob, WW2, Frayed Laces (FL), Jeff, WW1, Mark, Red Rabbit and myself. The trip was especially eventful as we were joined by Jim who lives in Mountain View (Hawaii) and Gary (Red Rabbit), who lives in Seattle and made the special trip to Hawaii for this run.

There was much concern leading into the weekend as many were concerned about the recent volcanic activity and subsequent elevated VOG alerts. Many runners avoided the this year's runs with concerns about the air quality. As it turned out, the winds blew to the southwest and the VOG was never a factor. The recent volcanic activity did force a course change which resulted in less off-road trail running. In my opinion, the course was much easier than past years when we ran onto the lava fields. Together with overcast skies and cooler than normal weather, today was an ideal day for the marathon.

Everyone has their own memorable story but a couple stand out as
highlights of the weekend. FL did not know she was the only one in our group doing the ten miler. With much prodding by Jeff and Mark, she reluctantly switched to the marathon (her second ever). After a conservative start, FL powered her way, passing many along the way, to the fourth place woman overall. That is until it was revealed that the first woman, Ariel M, was actually a guy thus pushing Laura to third overall. For her efforts, Laura received a beautiful colored glass vase with lid. Unfortunately, Ariel's switch to the male division bumped Jeff from AG 3rd to 4th.

Today was redemption day for Major Mark! With vivid memories of his serious injury in the lava fields last year, Mark won the Male Military division and received a handsome plate. You can view the complete results here.

The award ceremony concluded with the presentation of the HI3 medals. This award was presented to those runners who finished all three Big Island marathons this year. Naturally, many of us were recognized for this accomplishment. But it was quite a surprise when the top female with the best total combined time was announced. Heather was called up and awarded a HI3 Champion plaque! The spirits and camaraderie was high as our Ohana was joined by our many friends in the Hilo Ohana and the Judith Ohana (what are you guys called?) (Judith, Kat, Brenda, Ryan, Tomu, etc). ~maniacles

Here's the review from our HI3 Champ, Heather:
Running the outer island races with the Ohana is always a lot of fun. A mini vacation with a serious workout thrown in. This past weekend, eleven of us traveled to the Big Island for the wilderness runs organized by Wayne “Big Dog” Joseph and sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. A couple of the extended Ohana were able to join us. The 'Red Rabbit' came all the way from Washington State and Jim C. drove up from Mountainview.

This is the 26th year of the event and for a time there was a question as to whether we would be running this year. Recent volcanic activity meant that a large part of the route for both the 10 mile crater rim run and marathon were now bathed in sulphur fumes. Far from ideal running conditions. Fortunately, a new route for both was implemented and the show went on.

The morning of the race dawned wet and cool. Everyone stayed under cover for as long as possible in the hope of keeping their muscles warm. I was excited. This was my first attempt at the full marathon. The last couple of years I have completed the 10 miler and loved every minute of it. The fact that I never have any aches and pains at the end is always an added bonus. Encouraged by 'Da Man' Alfredo (we missed him this year) and the rest of the maniacs I was set for a new challenge.

This year the route was meant to be easier, more road and less trail.
Not the same, some said, but better than not running at all. I would definitely have liked more trail and less hill. I found the course to be tough but beautiful. I was lucky enough to have company for most of the run as Wily kept me going.
The new course went in the opposite direction from KMC. Past Volcano house, round by Thurston lava tube and down through a fern forest. The smell of ginger was amazing. That part was a challenge of alternating between ducking your head and jumping over fallen branches. Lucky I am short. I think Wily must have caught at least one branch.

Then we joined Chain of Craters Road and ran down onto Halina Pali Road. Then the fun stopped. Having descended about 1000 feet or so we then had to turn around and climb back up. Escape road was everything they had said and more. I could feel every rock underfoot and my legs were not loving the steady incline. The volunteers at the aid stations were great though and every now and then Jim would appear camera in hand so you just had to smile and have fun. It is nice to have pictures of us all running, thanks Jim.
123 people completed the marathon. The first in an amazing 3:20:55 with the last coming in 7:12:19. The Ohana completed another successful race. Our times are listed below. Mark, who came to grief in the lava fields last year, was triumphant winning the military division. There was some confusion over the third place male and female. When it was discovered that Ariel (wasn`t that the little mermaid?) was a guy, Jeff was shunted to fourth position and Laura was moved up to third female. Most importantly though, Les was healthy and happy at the finish without the need of an IV!

Congratulations to all the ohana. Great to see so many maniacs out there too. Thanks to the race organizers for keeping this race going. I am glad I had the opportunity to be a part of this tradition and to finally run all three Big Island marathons. Thanks also to Madam Pele for favourable weather conditions and for providing us with an amazing place to run.

Results for the Ohana:

David C. 40 - 49 Honolulu, HI 3:26:54

Jeff F. 30 – 39 Honolulu, HI 3:56:10

Shaka 40 – 49 Aiea, HI 4:07:12

Laura 'Frayed Laces' 20 – 29 Honolulu, HI 4:11:44

Ryan S. 30 - 39 Honolulu, HI 4:16:29

Major Mark 'da Rock' Military Wahiawa, HI 4:17:35

Brenda Y. 50 - 59 Honolulu, HI 4:18:03

Steve 'MM #1056' 50 - 59 Hilo, HI 4:22:00

Gary 'Red Rabbit' 50 – 59 Snohomish, WA 4:22:26

Maniacles Omura 50 – 59 Honolulu, HI 4:30:31

Wyatt 'WW1' 30 – 39 Honolulu, HI 4:37:29

Ray 50 – 59 Aiea, HI 4:55:42 78

Harvey N. 40 - 49 Hilo, HI 5:23:23

Judith I. 50 -59 Kailua, HI 5:27:59

Wild Bill 50 - 59 Hana, HI 4:56:08

Kat T. 30 - 39 Honolulu, HI 4:59:24

Greg Military Hilo, HI 5:08:56

Heather 30 – 39 Aiea, HI 5:16:10

Wily 'Coyote'/WW2 20 – 29 Pearl City, HI 5:16:10

Marie K. 60 - 69 Hilo, HI 5:54:01

Invincible 'Bob' 50 – 59 Kapolei, HI 7:11:06

Much Mahalos to Jim C. for not only being our 'equipment manager ' and 'official photographer' but as always being such a great friend! Also much aloha to our Hilo 'clan' and the Marrs (RR & Sue) , enjoyed seeing all of you! Can't wait to see you all at the next one!

Will do another entry for Tinman and the Maunawili Out & Back 22-miler later this week!

Five Years and Run(ning)STRONG!!!

2008-07-23T23:57:00.000-07:00

Five years ago our veteran running store manager fulfilled his lifelong dream by opening his own store in his hometown. In the last five years this little shop in Aiea has grown and developed a following that rivals the best sports stores in the state. We have so much gratitude for the generosity and friendship of Raymond Woo. He has contributed so much to the local running community for so many years.Ray opened RunnersHI sometime in July 2003 (the exact date eludes him in his advanced age). On Tuesday, July 22, the Runners' HI Ohana celebrated five successful years of a great community with Ray.

Cheers to Ray and Runners' HI for the neverending support in all our endeavors! Here's to many more years to come!!! Here's to mainacles, Shaka, Neil V., Maverick Nakasone, and the rest who first began our Tuesday runs! Also here's to all the Ohana no matter where you are for just being apart of our close knit group!

Special Mahalos to mainacles who composed the first paragraph of this entry and Tim V. for the special 'Runners HI Life' brew!

Catching up with the Ohana...the mid-July issue

2008-07-16T01:14:00.000-07:00

Aloha all! After another exciting and busy few weeks since the Fourth of July weekend, here's an update on what's been going on:
First of all, despite having been told by Mark E. about this race, I totally forgot to add it to the events on the Fourth of July weekend.

Scholfield Barracks Fourth of July 5k
Several of the Ohana and thier families took part in the short but very fun race. What a way to start off the three day weekend! A quick description of the course by Dan T. was a out and back race up the hill on Kolekole Road then back down the same street to the finish. He said the only big complaint was that runners had to weave about each other as both halves of the race were on the same side of the road. The full results can be viewed here.

DAVE C. 19:51.4
MARK E. 20:54.5
DENISE C. 22:21.6
DAN T. 24:13.6
TYLER G. 25:16.8
ANNE G. 28:40.6
MARJORIE E. 34:17.0

Awesome job all! Even more kudos to Mark & Marge E. and Anne for also getting up early the next morning to do the Kaena Point 10-mile trail run! Way to go all! Thanks again Dan for the heads up and the info!

Road rash, Le Tour de France, trails and centipedes...oh my!
Finally had my first bike crash in a couple months! After a good brick comprised of a 13-mile ride then a good tempo run with the gang at the shop, I began the quick 3-mile sprint back home on my speed machine. Not even a 1/2-mile out, I was laid out on the road with a good amount of road rash and my bike having some questionable damage to its structure. Luckily none of the injuries were life threatening or serious and the bike is still rideable (and usable for this weekend), though I'm waiting to see what the damage will be to my wallet. Much mahalos to the Ohana for the support and willingness to have come out to scrape by rear off the road!
In going into this coming weekend's Tinman Triathlon, my inspiration is Cadel Evan in his roller coaster ride on the Tour. After getting into a nasty crash on Sunday's Stage 9: Toulouse to Bagnères-de-Bigorre (224 km/139.2 mi), he found himself in yellow Monday after a grueling Stage 10: Pau to Hautacam (156 km/96.9 mi), which included two beyond classification climbs up the Col du Tourmalet followed by the Hautacam! That's dedication!

A few of the Ohana decided to get some trail training in to get ready for the upcoming Volcano Marathon on July 26th. After some confusion in finding the turaround at the Waimanalo Demo trail head, then jetting back up to the start at the Pali Lookout for the start. We were off. The gang was treated to beautiful views of the Windward side of O`ahu, lush rainforests with cool valleys, and an overall great training run. Though Marge, Maniacles, and myself were only able to complete half for several reasons, Mark, Shaka, and former MM groupie, Heather were able to complete the entire route just before lunch (noon)! Can't wait til the real run the weekend after Volcano! Btw, any wishing to do the Maunawili Out&Back 22-miler can view the H.U.R.T. race website for the full info. It can be run either individually or as a two person relay team (one doing Pali to Waimanalo the other going back up). Many of the Ohana have already begun earnestly looking to do this one in some way or another. If you do participate...bring LOTS of water as in more than two water bottles and be sure to refill at the turnaround (as Maniacles would testify to)!

Lastly but not the least, much alohas and kudos to Frayed Laces after her exciting weekend camping and sleeping with the centipedes! Then to top it off she decides to do a brick today! Boy someone's looking prime for this weekend!

On that note, the countdown begins to the big day at Kapiolani Park at San Souci Beach! With this being the last known triathlon for the year, many are thinking to put in a good race. Three of the ladies in the Ohana have put together a team. Individual participants include 'Smooth', WWI, WWII, Frayed Laces & myself! Good luck all!

H.U.R.T. Kaena Point Firecracker 10-mile trail run Results

2008-07-06T22:50:00.000-07:00

Results are up and here's how the gang did:

Kevin 1:07:47
'Super' Dave C. 1:09:35
Jay K. 1:09:52
Emily 1:14:59
Shaka 1:22:37
jf 1:25:30
Mainacles 1:25:55*
Brother Mark 1:26:20*
Frayed Laces 1:26:53 (5th female)
WWI (Wyatt) 1:26:54
Dara O. 1:27:38 (7th female)
Jim M. 1:30:28
Lynda 1:37:03 (10th female)
Rusty 1:37:45
Brenda 2:06:40
Ray 2:08:12
WW II (Wily C.) 2:16:26
Divina 2:20:13
Marge 2:23:15

*-times not recorded but based on finished behind the runner(s) they were between
Anne also ran but her time as missed.
Great job all! The full results can be seen here and along with photos!!!

Fourth of July Weekend...Runners' HI style!!!

2008-07-06T18:14:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great three day weekend relaxing, enjoying time with the family, or just getting your sanity back. Regards to Frayed Laces who spent her July 4th holiday working. At least she got to spend some quality time with her roomies after! Some of the Ohana spent the weekend doing some fun trail running at the H.U.R.T. Firecracker 10-miler at Kaena Point on Saturday, then doing leaving their running attire at home to ride along the Tinman Triathlon cycling route on Sunday! Prior to all this fun two of the Ohana, Kyle the Kidd and Wily Coyote, participated in another marathon of sorts!

Happy Anniversaries, Kona Marathon PR Celebration,and 'Dixie Grill eat-a-thon'??

On Thursday, 7/3, we celebrated the anniversaries of three of the couples in the Ohana as well as Kona Marathon PRs for Shaka and Wily Coyote. Little did we know what was in store for the evening!

As his reward for PR-ing Wily C. was to get a chance at devouring a 5-lb Dixie Grill burger. Unfortunately this 'challenge' was no longer available..which may have been a sign of things to come. Almost simultaneously both Kyle the Kidd and Wily C. spied the humangous platters of food made for over two people! Both looked at each other and said 'We're there!'

Wily C. took charge of the Dixie Grill Trash Can Buffet....

while the Kidd eagerly ordered the Trash Can O' Crab...

In short, while both came up a little...well, short of eating the entire meal, they consumed more than what any of us ever expected and we believe would give hard rubs to Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi! Good job you two! Now to get rid of all of that...

Kaena Point Firecracker 10-miler

On the day after a national holiday, who would want to wake up before 4am to travel to the far reaches of the North Shore of O`ahu to run in the hot, humid, rocky trails of Kaena Point?!?!? Well apparently about one-hundred (114 to be exact) very excited and happy runners decided to do so (this was a course record in attendance...usually only 50 show up)! A good 40% of those who lined up at the start were newbies to the course (with about 25% saying this was their first trail run)!!! Runners' HI was well represented by about 18 of the Ohana taking part (including Wily C. & the Kidd who were all fueled by Dixies!), with seven being new to running the Hawai`i trail systems!

The trail proved to be a challenge for many as the barren, rocky ground caused various undulations and pitfalls in the trail. The morning sun while providing an awe-inspiring sunset also created hot conditions for the first and last 3-miles of the race. The start was signaled with some post-holiday fireworks, a small fountain! Those familar with the course were disappointed to not have their 'favorite crossing' included in the race at the washout point. A new trail going above the cliff had been made, providing a bit of climbing (and stumbling). The middle 4-miles of the route were shady (as it was on the Waianae-side of Kaean Point, well sheltered by the mountain range), and provided spectacular views of the rugged coastline!

There was a 100% completion of all runners with many newbies proclaiming that if they knew it was this fun they would've done the first three races (the H.U.R.T. runs to follow will all be over 20-miles in preparation for the H.U.R.T. 100)!!!

Several of the women from the Ohana managed to place in the top 10 female finishers! First timers Frayed Laces (4th) and Dara O. (6th) were amongst them! Shaka also had a great race in remaining right behind the lead pack and this time without having any trips, falls, or scrapes! Another surprise was the performance by Maniacles who began picking up the pace after the first 5k and never looked back!

No results yet but will put them up as soon as they are posted! Great job all! Thanks for the pic Shaka and mahalos to Carl for being our photographer (and being so patient)!

Much alohas to Dara & Rusty! Hope you both will one day join us for our weekly runs! Also as always Aloha to Jim M., one of the Runners' HI originals who's been at all of the H.U.R.T runs so far! It's always a great pleasure and fun 'catching up' with you!

Most importantly much mahalos to the H.U.R.T. gang especially Barbie, Bob, John, P.J. and Cheryl for putting together this race! Always fun from the time runners arrive til well past when they leave!

Tinman Cycling Course Adventure

About a dozen cycling enthusiasts from the Ohana took to the roads of Waikiki-Kahala to tour the route for the bike portion for the Tinman triathlon. While most new to the sport took in all of the various concepts and mechanisms on their street machines, all seemed to enjoy riding 10x's faster than they've ever ran down Kalanianeole Hwy!

Much Mahalos to Wily Coyote for providing many of the gang with bikes and the Nagai family for providing the picture (and Brian for being our photographer)!

Major races some of the Ohana will be participating in next are:

- Tinman Triathlon, Sunday 7/21: Start time 6 a.m at Queen's Beach

- Volcano Marathon and Wilderness Runs, Saturday 7/26 5 a.m. marathon start (?)/6 a.m. 10-miler start (?) at Volcano National Park, Island of Hawai`i

The next H.U.R.T. run will be the Maunawili Out & Back 22-miler on Saturday, 8/2 start time at 7 a.m. This can also be run as a relay event with 11-mile legs between two runners (sure there will be some argument of who gets the uphill portion). This will be followed by the TTT (Tantalus Triple Trek - 30+ mile/three 10-mile loops) at HNC on 8/30 with a 5:30 a.m. start time! FYI, the TTT had a 10-hour time limit last year (don't know if it's still in effect)! See ya on the trails or roads!!!

Another fun-filled weekend...Kona Marathon & Firecracker Sprint Triathlon!

2008-06-30T23:12:00.000-07:00

It was another busy Sunday for the Ohana as several took part in either the Kona Marathon on the Island of Hawai`i or the Firecracker Sprint Triathlon at Nimitz Beach, Kalaeloa (Barber's Point), O`ahu. All had a great time and have many individual stories to tell. Congrats to all and hope to hear more Tuesday!!
Btw, congrats also out to Red Rabbit, who did a double weekend, and TC, who ran the Saturday marathon with RR!

Kona Marathon 2008

Following on the trail of the Ironman marathon route, 210 runners withstood the humidity and vog of Kona in completing yet (another) 26.2-miles. Though not as hot as prior Kona Marathons of the past (very overcast this year), the humidity did get to many. Another notch in the run belt for the Maniacs. See full results here.

Much mahalos to our Big Island Ohana, especially the Queen, Steve, & Greg for all of their hospitality! Also much mahalos to Mrs maniacles for putting up with us and driving us around!

da Queen 5:05:23 (BI Ohana!)

Mark E. 3:55:39

Steve P. 3:31:20 (BI Ohana)

Shaka 3:21:38 ** Kona Marathon PR!!

Jim W. 3:31:37

Rani 3:08:37 (BI Ohana)

ed. 3:27:03

Greg L.H. 4:09:05 (BI Ohana)

maniacles 4:11:05 (out did me with not just another IV but two!!! guess that beats hypothermia!)

Jeanne W. 3:51:07

srlopez 3:51:22 (Maniac cpu guru!)

WWI (Wyatt) 4:01:12

'Iron' Mike B. 4:07:34 (potentially in Ironman Kona 2008!)

WBC 4:12:42 (Maui Ohana!)

WWII (Wily) 4:25:24 ** Marathon PR!!!

DA MAN!! 4:39:52

Jon 'da host' 4:43:53

Former 'MM groupie' (Heather) 4:59:15

Karl 'Wow'rtl 6:06:08 (still don't know how he keeps going....and going...and going)

June (WWI's other half) took part in the 10k run and did an awesome 1:31:41!

Firecracker Sprint Triathlon

Ray 'the Boss', Brenda, and 'Smooth' took on the strong currents and heat of Kalaeloa Sunday in a fun-filled triathlon. Times are yet to be posted but from all accounts all did well and had fun!

NEXT UP: Kaena Pt. on Saturday, July 5th; Tinman Triathlon on Sunday, July 20th; and Volcano Marathon on Saturday, July 26th!

Runners' HI Ohana...Reunited...and it felt so good!!!

2008-06-07T23:22:00.000-07:00

Okay a bit late (like a whole week!) but finally getting this entry in! Sorta like getting over the short vacation! On the weekend of May 30-June 1st, several of the Ohana ventured to California to take part in the Rock n' Roll San Diego Marathon. Yup, nothing like getting back together with our mainland Ohana to do what we love most...running the ol' 26.2!

It was great seeing Stroller Mom & Dad w/ Grace & Ocean, Gerald, and John. On a partial sad note, this was also one of the last runs with Laura S. who with her husband Jason, will be moving to Mississippi then Georgia...all great places to add more runs!

All enjoyed the spectacularly, awesome running weather with providing ideal conditions for some PRs and a BQ or two.
Congrats to all who took part:
Johnny 'Brother Shaka' - 3:12:07 PR/BQ
Mark E. 'da Rock' - 3:20:23 PR/BQ
Laura S. - 4:30:25
Elisa 'the Animal' - 4:03:50 PR

Jeff - 3:39:48 - Ran with aching IT bands but had the best time running the last 5k with the R.R.!
Coswin - 3:28:30
Amanda 'Stroller Mom' - 5:07:58
Dan 'Stroller Dad' - 5:07:59
Gary 'THE Red Rabbit' - 3:41:01 (1 week after a marathon in Alaska w/ Olympia Marathon next weekend!)
Gerald - 4:51:18
John M. - 4:43:29
Heather - 4:34:15
Buffy - 3:37:51 BQ for Momma Libby!
Ray - 5:58:11
Brenda - 5:58:08
Charmaine - 5:44:11

More pics to come later! Here's some comments from the gang:

Stroller Mom: We had a blast. Loved the bands, especially the post-race band. TNT runners were slightly better than what we've seen in the past, but their coaches just weren't thinking on the course. After being nearly toppled by three or four, we were pretty frustrated.Hot day for us, we just haven't had the warm weather to train in. But that's no excuse. Interesting to note, my Garmin autopauses when I stop... it had us finishing in 4:50. So we lost 17 minutes waiting for porta-potties at various points. And we didn't make THAT many stops. Hmmm.It was fantastic to meet up with everyone! Les, you were definitely missed! Had a great time. Chase was enchanted by everyone, Elisa in particular :)Enough so that we're contemplating a location for the next Ohana Reunion Marathon.

Brother Shaka: I just wanted to send a quick note to thank everyone one for a very nice time in San Diego!!! (And YES I ACTUALLY DID HAVE A NICE TIME!!!)
I wanted to congratulate all of us on finishing the marathon!!! We all survived!!!
It was SO NICE seeing our Ohana who have moved away. I am glad we were able to hang out and see the San Diego Zoo and Sea World and just hang out and enjoy each others company.

Gerald: Wow that was great to see everyone, and what a beautiful Southern Cali day. I do miss Hawaii very much and the great weather, but more so is you all. The weather is so consistent year-round and nice for running. I miss sharing the blacktop and getting that great physical abuse (lol) of running together.
This was my third timed event since breaking my foot in Honolulu. My longest run prior was a 9 mile practice run with a group here in San Jose. The first half of the RnR Marathon was great, but the second half got tough, but as they say finishing is the goal. I had a great time, finished my third marathon (a baby compared to many of my Ohana brothers and sisters), and got sun burned. Now I will concentrate on shorter runners and give my foot that full year required to heal completely. I enjoying the time, but had to drive back up to San Jose. Funny thing on the way home, got pulled over by the California Highway Patrol four exists before our turn off at 2 am. No ticket and all is well that ends well or is it, all is fair is love and war? The Officer said the car was driving a little erratically.
Congratulations to all of my fellow runners and it was so great to see familiar faces, I miss you, and feel blessed to be able to live in Hawaii, meet all of you and be able to share time. I am hoping to do Honolulu again and see all of you in our home field, lol.
I just wanted to add you all kick A_ _. Let me tell you, you talk about extreme sports and things to do, you all do it all the time. A Marathon has to be at the top of list's of extreme sports/events, and all of you do it like it's just another day at the office.

Laura S: I had a GREAT time with you all. Thanks for the going away party a few weeks ago and for making my last Runners Hi Hurrah so great. I will miss you all tremendously!Keep in Touch for sure!

Jon M: I truly enjoyed seeing everyone and regret I was unable to spend more time with you. As others have said this is a terrific ohana that just gets better and better. You have no idea how much I miss all of you and how much I enjoyed seeing the folks that came to San Diego.

Also congratulations to Mike G. aka 'Smooth' as he completed his first Honu/(Half) Ironman 70.3 Hawai`i on May 31st with a total time of 6:22:08! Of course we can't forget Dave (0f Triathlete Magazine centerfold fame): 5:23:49...Smokin'!!!

Congrats to all who competed this past weekend. Next week is a back to back week with the H.U.R.T. Mango Madness 10-mile trail run on Saturday, 5/14, and the Hibiscus Half-Marathon on Sunday, 5/15! See most of you on the roads and trails!!!

Alohas, San Diego, Honu and more!

2008-05-29T12:26:00.001-07:00

As always, the Ohana will be bidding farewell to two couples that frequented our weekly runs and often joined us on our 'little excursions'. Justin & Kristine, though only having been with the gang at the shop for roughly six months, will be returning to New York so Kristine can pursue her graduate degree in organic medicine. Justin, a teacher and running coach at Waianae H.S., will be doing some coaching at a small college as well as upping his triathlon/running accolades. While their time with us was brief, they made an immediate impact as Justin tore up the roads, trails, and swims about O`ahu placing in several road races and triathlons. Looking forward to hear how both progress.

Our other couple, has been with us about three years. Never realizing how fast the time has gone by, Laura and Jason S. will also be heading to the East Coast (joining Stroller Mom & Dad) as Jason takes on his next tour of duty in the Air Force. Both have done numerous running events with us including the Honolulu Marathon, Kona Marathon ('06), and the MPRRC marathon series. Laura will joining the small contigent in San Diego to reunite with most of the mainland Ohana there and run the RnR marathon Sunday (6/1/2008).
Speaking of which, about seven of the O'ahu gang depart (or have departed) for San Diego today. While most are amient about the upcoming marathon, all are very muchly looking forward to the reunion with our Mainland Ohana including Stroller Mom & Dad, the Red Rabbit, Miller-time, and the Animal! Unfortunately a key member, maniacles, had a previously planned trip to Japan with his family (Ohayoo gozaimasu/Konban wa! Ogenki desu ka? - Good morning/afternoon! How are you feeling?). While no marathon venture is complete without 'Dr Death/maniacles', we'll be glad that he is relaxing and having fun. Likely while we are running those 26.2 miles, he'll be up a tree communicating with the rainforest birds! Have a safe and fun trip Omura clan!
Of equal note, we also want to wish 'Smooth' and Dave L. good luck at the Honu half-Ironman/Ironman 70.3 Hawai`i this coming Saturday! Both will undoubtely do very well and have a great time! Whoops time to roll to HNL! See you folks!

2008 Honolulu Triathlon

2008-05-19T22:41:00.000-07:00

Congrats to all who participated in the triathlon this past Sunday (5/18/2008). There were two separate races (full Olympic distance to choose from and a variety of ways to participate (individual or as part of a team doing either of the two distances). Proud of all who were able to enter it and yes, maniacles, as much as I'm aching and should be taking it easy, I really miss doing these multi-sport competitions.
Here's a quick summary of the Ohana who competed. Full results can be viewed per the race they did: full, sprint, team full, and team sprint

Honolulu Triathlon
Sunday,18 May 2008 6:00 a.m. Start
Olympic Distance
1500 Meter Swim, 40K Bike, 10K Run

JUSTIN H. 2:06:47 - 2nd in AG
WILY W. 3:05:21
WYATT W. 2:29:10
DAVE LOW 2:13:55
MICHAEL G. 2:33:38
NICK K. 2:19:51
TREVOR M. 2:46:08
TIMOTHY V. 2:44:46

Honolulu Sprint Triathlon
400 Meter Swim, 11 Mile Bike, 5K Run

LAURA K. 1:13:32 - Placed 2nd overall (click her name to see her account)
B KAINALU P. 1:04:35 - Won Masters Category
SCOT M. 1:06:49 - 2nd overall in Masters Category

Trisha P. took part in the team version of the Sprint, running 32:10 5k! Way to go!
Great job all and hope you all had fun. In the words of Dave L.
'that was fun! next up: hawaii 70.3 ironman (get ready for max pain)'!!!!

For all those triathlete's who won't be doing HONU (Ironman 70.3 Hawai`i) and havent' been satisfied there's the Tinman Triathlon on July 20th and the Na Wahine Triathlon in September (think same day as Maui Marathon). Keep on tri-ing!

H.U.R.T. Run with a View Race Review

2008-05-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

One of the many teachers in our Ohana, Lynda N., has finally found her niche...trail running. She's ran both of the first two of the H.U.R.T. series and been the main instigator of getting the gang together for trail run Monday. Here's her first race review regarding this past Saturday's (10May2008) trail run:

The "Run with a View" trail run was definitely the most beautiful run I've been on (but then again, I guess I haven't been on THAT many runs - lol). A lot of spots for scenic shots (I'm surprised Ray didn't stop along the way to take pics)...great views of Pearl Harbor and the West side...
Although the initial thought of running the hills was intimidating, the first 1/2 mile going up the street was totally unexpected. That, actually, to me, was the most difficult part of the entire race. Ask anyone there, I had to WALK up the second half 1/4 mile because I lost all my steam before I started! By then, all the guys were happily up the hill like goats gallivanting on a mountain side (of course I don't mean you looked like goats - just acclimated to the incline). There was one slippery dry spot, about 2 miles in (a hill going down), just before the so-called "hair pin" turn, but for the most part, the course was nice. The one aid station was situated in the area just as I needed some quenching...and the weather was perfect - overcast and cool.
If you like running downhill (like me), you'd love this run because there is a long stretch at the end - perhaps the last 2 miles (?) where you can practically "fly" down the jeep road, back onto the street and through the two orange cones. There, you will be greeted by drinks, fresh fruit and food (homemade, I might add). Yeah, one thing about this H.U.R.T. series - they've got THE BEST refreshments afterwards...
Jeff (1:26:16), Johnny (1:26:20), and Mark (1:26:30) came in earlier on, I came in at 1:41:37 and Ray and Brenda came in just a bit later - they were enjoying themselves and the view the most, out of all of us...
Results are here: http://hurthawaii.blogs.com/RunwithaView2008.pdf
I would definitely do this run again next year, and I think if you haven't already tried it, you should seriously think about it. It's definitely doable and beautiful (does that kinda rhyme?) Mango Madness is coming up on June 14. I'm gonna try it...we'll see if I die or not.

Great run and review...guess that means she's no longer a rookie at either. Hope to hear more from others as well.

Results finally!

2008-05-14T00:52:00.001-07:00

The results are up for the MAG-24 Triathlon. Thanks Mr T for finding them. Congrats all!

SCOT M. Overall Time: 1:03:59 *Placed 3rd in AG M40-44
WYATT W. Overall Time: 1:08:05
MIKE G. Overall Time: 1:09:59 *Placed 5th in AG M40-44
STEFY M. Overall Time: 1:11:11 *Won AG!! 1st in F40-44

Found out Dave L. is gearing up for the Honolulu Triathlon (next race for most of the triathletes among or Ohana, with the exception of a certain gimp who wiped himself out the last few months)! Again great job all!
Have a great week!

'Short' Race Weekend

2008-05-11T16:41:00.000-07:00

It's just the beginning of summer here in Hawai`i (though it feels like it's summer here 9 months of the year), and what better way to start it all off than with a couple of short races! This weekend was jam-packed with a wide assortment of things to do. The Ohana was well represented at all of them. Before getting into all the race reviews, first would like to say welcome back to Valerie V. and Frayed Laces (Laura K) whom participated in their first run races since recovering from various injuries/illnesses! Great to see you both back in the 'run' of things!

Saturday, 10May2008

Jamba Juice Bananaman Chase 5k at Ala Moana (Magic Island) Beach Park, 7am start
The basic fast & flat run around Magic Island & Ala Moana Beach Park, but with a twist! Chase the goofballs in the banana suits and you win some Jamba Juice. Place overall or take your AG and get your fill of fruity fun for an entire year! The Ohana that took part in this did really well! Great job! As I mentioned previously 'Welcome back Frayed Laces!'
Ohana Results:
JUSTIN H. Time: 15:33.7 Pace: 4:51/M *2nd Place Overall!! Jambas for all!!!
KEVIN E. Time: 16:50.3 Pace: 5:15/M *Placed in AG: 1 M 16-19 More Jamba Juice!!!
DAVID C. Time: 19:00.5 Pace: 5:55/M
DENISE C. Time: 21:58.0 Pace: 6:51/M * Placed in AG: 1 F 40-49 Even more Jamba!!
LAURA K. Time: 22:19.7 Pace: 6:57/M * PR for a 5k (even before injury)! Welcome back!
GIANNI C. Time: 24:24.6 Pace: 7:36/M

H.U.R.T. Run-with-a-View 8-mile trail run from Park about the trails in Pearl City, 7am start
The race started at the neighborhood park at the corner of Kaahele St. and Naalii St. where participants ran 1/2-mile UP Kaahele St. to the trailhead to make a 7-mile clockwise loop on trails before returning back down Kaahele St. to the park. The only aid station at the 3.5 mile mark which was well stashed with Gatorade, water, and a smiling volunteer!
The finish was well stocked with great homemade goodies, juice, water and socializing! There was some debate which was the best, the muffins or the chocolate mochi!The biggest talk of post-race however were regarding 'dirty girls.com'....I mean, 'dirtygirlgaiters.com'! Guess people don't like having a little momento from the trails to take along with them! Hehehe!
The only 'bad' comment on this was that the trail was dry with no mud present....when do the real H.U.R.T. races begin!!!! All had a great time! Big kudos for H.U.R.T. for putting all these runs on!
Ohana Results: Not available at time I decided to post this, but who cares! All finished and had loads of fun! Partipants from the Ohana included Johnny 'Shaka', Mark E. Mark (aka da Rock), Lynda N. (*Placed in top ten females), Ray W., Brenda T. Jim (one of the original of the Ohana)& Jeff F. Cynthia & Glenn T. who live right across the street from the finish area, were awesome in coming out to see everyone then volunteered to go out on the trail to pull all the marking ribbons down! Btw, now we have a new place for an 'aid-station' during hill training!
Also present (as always) were Huddy, Fish, Gordon L., Ernest T., Marian Y., and the McCallisters (complete with the two 'kids')!

33rd Annual Pineapple (10k) Run in Wahiawa, 7am start (race review by Mr T)
This morning was the Pineapple Run 10k (but should be renamed as a 11k). The field started off under a drizzle/rain. It helped to keep the temperature down for a better part of the day.For those who havent run this course, it is a loop outof Wahiawa towards the North Shore, turning back towards Schofield Barracks, ultimately returning to Wahiawa, going down the main drag. Tim and Valerie were there with George along for the ride. Laura earned a spot on the podium, Way to GO!!
Pineapples to every finisher (over 600 distributed), this is one of those things worth bonking for that you read about in RW. I already cut mine up, and it was the best one I have tasted, but that comes with running 6.7 miles to get a big piece of fruit. Everything is better when you earn it.
Ohana Results:
LAURA S. Time: 55:04.2 Pace: 8:09/M *Placed 3 F 20-29
DANIEL T. Time: 56:22.1 Pace: 8:21/M
ANNE G. Time: 1:03:34.2 Pace: 9:25/M
TIMOTHY V. Time: 1:03:36.6 Pace: 9:25/M
VALERIE & GEORGE V. Time: 1:31:10.0 Pace: 13:30/M * 1st run post-surgery! Welcome back!

MAG-24 Sprint Triathlon at MCBH Kaneohe Bay, 730a start
One of the shortest and fastest of the local triathlons in Hawai`i (hence a sprint). Quick rundown of the race is a 500m swim in the gross water in Kaneohe Bay followed by a very fast twisting 11-mile bike ride through the base (where I crashed last year in missing the last turn to T2), then a hilly but fast 3-mile (5k) run up the back end of the base!
Ohana Results: No results posted as of yet but those from the Ohana that competed were Dave L., Mike G., and Wyatt W.

Sunday, 11May2008
Popoia Swim at Kailua Beach Park - 1.6 miles around Flat Island and back, 8am start
Nice swim in the waters of Kailua Beach, though currents can be a bit sketchy for the landlovers (novice swimmers). Like the MAG-24 Tri no results as of yet but Justin H. & Wyatt W. did take part and likely did very well.

Pearl Harbor Bike Path 10K at Lehua School , 7am start
Another race that takes place in the Ohana's 'turf'! Similar to the Bananaman Chase the course is a flat, fast, out & back route from Lehua School to the other end of the path past the Pearl Harbor Marina. Quick U-turn around the cone with an aid-station and you're on your way back! Same results as Saturday with many of the Ohana on the podium!

Ohana Results:
David Carlsson Time: 39:59 Pace: 6:26/M *Placed in AG 1/5 M40-44 -guess he's all recovered from injury?
Joseph A. Time 43:00 Pace: 6:55/M *Placed in AG 3/7 M45-49
Carole H. Time: 48:54 Pace: 7:52/M *Place in AG 1/3 F45-49
Mike H. Time: 48:55 Pace: 7:53/M *Way to go Onipa`a, possible PR??
Mina Loreto Time: 49:11 Pace: 7:55/M *Placed in AG 2/5 M55-59
TC Time: 49:15 Pace: 7:56/M * Placed in AG 1/8 M60-64
Mike P. Time: 50:54 Pace: 8:12/M *Placed in AG 2/8 M60-64
Judith Inazu Time: 54:35 Pace: 8:47/M *Placed in AG 1/2 F55-59

Runners' HI Hardcore Distance Run, meet 530a at the shop parking lot with planned route of 20-something miles
For all those that wanted to put in their miles and not pay the $$$, the gang continued their high mileage training in the morning. In the world of maniacles and Shaka, planned run doesn't mean 'we're sticking to the route'! They began sporadically adding in all the hills that were along the route. Only 'Da Rock' was able to stick it out with them for a total of 21-miles! JF finally gave in to the sheer pain of ITB injuries and the constant wear & tear doing too much but managed to log in a very painful 16. Da Man & Raymond S. did the simple route into Moanalua Valley and back to the shop for 17.

All in all, it was a very exciting and fun-filled weekend for all. As soon as the results for the MAG-24 Triathlon & the Poipoia Swim are up, I'll post them in a follow-up! Hope everyone had a great weekend!
Not to be out-done or go without mentioning, much mahalos and sincere kow-towing to our USPS carriers, maniacles & da Man for all the extra volunteer hours they put in for the FoodBank food drive! Both stayed into the wee hours of Saturday evening and arrived Sunday on-time and eager to run! Neither shirked from the miles they wanted to put in or took any wrong turns!
Take care all and 'see ya on the roads/trails'!

Catching up with the Ohana

2008-05-07T00:22:00.000-07:00

Been pretty busy with alot of things since Boston and as a result have been behind in keeping up with posts for the latest adventures of our ever productive and expanding Ohana. Here's a brief recap of the races/events that have occurred over the last two weeks. Much thanks to Stroller Mom & Dad, Maniacles, and Mr. T for their race reviews and emails regarding what the gang has been doing...

3D Marine 10k on Saturday 26April2008 @ MCBH Kaneohe

Well folks, here is the post-race 'run' down for thisevent.I think that I was the only one out there, didn't seeanyone(I was out numbered by Fleet Feet runners). It was a good course with two significant hills overthe first 3.5 miles with the remainder being flat. The weather got warm quick out there, but it wasnt toobad. I also overhead 'vog' being kicked around.Now those two hills, while there were only two, theymade up on quality what the event lacked in quantity. The second one never wanted to end. It was a burner! With that being said, I am going to pass on the hillrun tomorrow.I must say, if you do one one 10k in late april on theMCBH, this would be the one.Overall it was a good time with a really good turnout(I think it was around 200). ~Reviewed by Mr T (Dan)

Early Cinco de Mayo Celebration - Public Performance for Mariachi Loco

Mariachi Loco will be peforming Friday, May 2nd at the Mililani Town Center at "Just Tacos" from 8-10 p.m. for the general public.

Frederick Maryland Marathon on Sunday, May 4, 2008

Aloha All,

The East Coast Ohana checking in with the Frederick Maryland Marathon report. We had a picture perfect day. In some respects, a little warm. We were comfortable at the start in shorts and Marathon Maniac signets. But some late-in-the-race cloud cover and a good northerly breeze kept it from being too miserable.Saw a few other Maniacs out there. Opted for Maniac gear in order to be able to report on the One State, Two Marathons, Three Medals thing. We still find it funny.The course was okay. I really like figure eight courses. Thought the old town part of the run was interesting (especially seeing where Dan used to live), the River Walk was beautiful. Rivals San Antonio's River Walk. The industrial parts of the race weren't that scenic. And neither one of us likes to run on the side of highways, but they were parts to get over. There were some out and back parts so we could spot runners we'd chatted with previously.

Stroller Dad and I ran it as a date since he's been having problems with his heel lately. We probably should have taken a pass on it since I was sick yesterday. But neither of us had a limb hanging by a tendon, nor were we throwing up. So we took it easy, kissed at every mile marker, at the center of every bridge we ran over and every bridge we ran under... Our kind of date :)The medal was nice. The T-shirt was a gray microfiber pull-over jacket. For those of you old enough to remember, think Members Only jacket. It's kind of yucky. Especially since the half marathoners got long-sleeved technical T's.

We were sprinting to our finish, just about to catch the woman in front of us when Dan hollered out that he just did not have that next gear. I hesitated enough to let him catch up to me and it cost me two seconds. Yes, he beat me by two seconds on the chip time. Sigh, the things I do for love...

Grandma and Grandpa came through for us yet again and spent the night to watch the kids so we could get an early start (loved the 0630 start). They rock.Onward to San Diego. If we don't come up with Ohana running T's, I'm going with my raspberry Runner's Hi top...

Aloha, Stroller Mom

Marathon Weekend (Frederick, Eugene, Lincoln) Report by maniacles

Congratulations to ALL our weekend marathoners for their performances today!! Although Amanda & Dan were not 100% they still persevered and finished their runs at the Fredrick Marathon. Sounds like you two really knew how to enjoy the moment. We are reminded that a year ago, both Wyatt and Mike H were enjoying their experiences at the Fredrick Marathon. Red Rabbit and Bob also had successful runs today at the Eugene Marathon. Two weeks after Boston, RR had enough to finish in 3:44:26! (Gary-about a minute behind Maniac Marc Frommer) Also Bob, one of our most improved runners, shattered his previous best with a PR of 6:02:09! Bob just missed his six hour goal but he must be encouraged with his improvement.

In Lincoln Nebraska our Big Island friend, Greg, also set a new PR at the Lincoln Marathon. The other runner from Hawaii is Jay's friend Capt. Benito.
Our RunnersHI gang had a fine training run this morning. Twelve of us did a tough 20 miler in the Moanalua/Salt Lake area. Congratulations again to all our weekend marathoners. Four weeks till Rock n Roll in San Diego!Hope everyone else enjoyed their weekend runs. Train safe. maniacles

This coming weekend though without any known marathons being run by any Ohana members, is jam packed with several short races:

Saturday, May 10th:

-H.U.R.T. Run-with-a-View at top of Ka`ahele, $10 entry, show up/sign up, 7am start

-33rd Annual (10k) Pineapple Run (in Wahiawa), 7am start

-JambaJuice Bananaman Chase 5k at Magic Island, 7am start

-MAG-24 Sprint Triathlon at MCBH, Kaneohe Bay (500m swim/11.1-mile bike/5k run), 730a start

Sunday, May 11th:

-Pearl Harbor Bike Path 10k at Lehua School, 7am start

-Popoia 1.6-mile Swim at Kailua Beach Park, 8am start

Seems like the Ohana will be well represented in each of these events! Can't wait to hear the race reviews...that means more posts!!! For those looking for additional distance training, the Ohana will be heading to west (`ewa side) to to an 18-22 miler around Kapolei/Makakilo area! Have a great week all and hope your weekends are rewarding!

BOSTON!!!

2008-04-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

At some point in every marathoner's life, they aspire to finally take part in the most historic and pinnacle of marathon running...the Boston Marathon! On April 21, 2008, about 42 runners from the Aloha State (or with ties here) participated in the 112th running of this presitigious race, nine of them representing the Ohana.

After arriving in Boston, they attended the Marathon Expo at the Hynes Center to do packet pickup and purchase some neat souveniors and omiyage! Managed to meet up with the Red Rabbit, but missed Maverick and his girlfriend who got delayed at their hotel.

Called Maniacles to report that the expo was like 'being a kid in a candy or toy store!' So much to see, do, and purchase. Met several other Hawai`i runners there, all having that same thought (many trying to resist the temptations of coming back with more than what they came in with).

Many were experiencing mixed feelings about how to approach

raceday. Perhaps the best remedy was touring the city. Not only is Boston home to the Celtics, Bruins, and Red Sox, but it has perhaps some of the greatest historical sites representing our country's history!

Sites visited included the Boston Commons, Old Gramary Burial Ground (where Paul Revere, Sam Adams, and 'Mother Goose' are interred), Old State House (where the Boston Massacre took place), and Faneuil Hall. Other notable places were the New England Aquarium, Quincy Market (food of every sort), and the Cheers bars! Oh, can't forget, it's the former stomping grounds of Frayed Laces (who is now 'terrorizing' the streets on O`ahu)!

Raceday morning produced some problematics primarily weatherwise. Previous reports stated an overcast day with 30% chance of intermittent rain and temps in the range of mid 50-60s.

Monday, Patriot's Day, morning was more like low 50s with a high amount of clouds looming overhead, one could see their breath as they made their way to the start. This played on what to wear during the race. Eventually things began to warm up and just before guntime (5 minutes to be exact) the sun came out from behind the clouds. The rest of the day was picture perfect in terms of race conditions (for most) with clear skies and temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s.

One of the fun things about going to the Major Marathons is

being bussed to the start. One can meet alot of interesting people from various parts of not only the U.S. but also the rest of the world. Met a young lady from Chicago doing her second Boston and fourth marathon, who was recently married and thinking of going into triathlons. Her only problem was where she would go to train for swimming. After meeting up with the rest of the Hawai`i runners at the house of Aloha on 25 Main Street, the Ohana headed out for their respective starting corrals.

Overall the course was awesome and provided some of the most exihilarating fans cheering all the runners! From the start and especially entering Wellesley and Boston itself, it was like entering 'Scream Tunnel' twice! As Shaka, TC, and Maniacles advised, Heartbreak Hill was very overrated and I barely noticed it (though the hill prior to it was more of a gutcheck). Runners had to not only resist the urge to stop from fatigue and the various photo ops, but also to steal multiple kisses as they passed through Wellesley (for the males)!

Results for all of the Hawai`i finishers were reported on the Honolulu Advertiser site.

Here's how the Ohana faired (mahalos to Shaka for looking them all up):

Dave Eagar 2:50:00 (He beat Lance Armstrong by 58 seconds)
Jeff Fong 3:12:52 P.R. Yeah!!!
Coswin Saito 3:27:41
Joe Allen 3:35:27
Jim Woodhull 3:35:50
Mike Kasamoto 3:36:50
Jeff Nakasone 3:58:26
Gary Marr 4:07:15
Candy Smiley 4:09:57

All of the Ohana participants had an awesome Boston experience (more comments to come) and do have the lingering thought of returning next year. Next stop...San Diego!!!

Another weekend of races...and future events

2008-04-09T00:10:00.000-07:00

After all the numerous weekends of marathoning the past few months, a couple of the Ohana decided to shorten the distance for this weekend. Both the Hawai`i and Mainland groups found they short races fun and exciting but not as satisfying as getting those 26.2 (or more) miles in! Some had to remember how to run the pace for these shorter (and faster) races!

This from the constantly energized Stroller Mom & Dad at the Westfields High 5K:

Aloha All! We did a local 5K this morning and had a similar wind tunnel effect on the final leg of the run. Actually, we ran from home to the start (about 3.5 miles) as a warm up, Harriett biked. I took the jogging stroller and headed out on the course about ten minutes before the race started in order to run the course and get a good photo spot. Why? Well, the race rules stated strollers (and dogs, roller blades and iPODs) weren't welcome. Fortunately, it was not a huge race, so the running crowd was minimal. I counted about a dozen iPOD-adorned runners before Dan and Harriett passed me.

Once Harriett was passed, I got the kids back into the stroller and continued the course. Was fast enough to get ahead of Harriett so I could capture her finish.

All in all, it was a beautiful morning. No placing by my intrepid runners, but they won gift certificates in the raffle and Grace scored a donut from one of the volunteers. A good time had by all. And we got to run home afterwards.

Not quite the warm up we used to do for Ford Island -- run over from Hickam. Then do the race, and run home via a huge breakfast at Wilbur and Orville's. But it was ours. And the cherry blossoms are at their best today. Glorious puffs of pink.

Annual Ford Island Bridge Run:

Several of the Hawai`i crew took to the challenge of 'defending the home course' (though it was running our Tuesday route backwards) as they joined about 2,000 other runners, joggers, walkers, and stroller pushers in doing an out-and-back 10k around Ford Island.

Though the Ohana had its fair share of members making visits to the podium, all just enjoyed the morning running in great conditions! Great job all!

Here's a few pics from race day! Enjoy!

Not to forget, Congratulations once again to the Johnson family on their new addition (dad and baby in pic below - 2nd on left bottom row)! Welcome back to running 'Dad'! Hope mom and baby can join us soon!

Next up for some will be the Boston Marathon on Monday (Patriots' Day), April 21st. Others will be looking forward to the next couple of weeks of racing as we are now in the midst of the triathlon season (article to come later).

Of important mention is our Runners' HI Ohana reunion in San Diego, fittingly to run the RocknRoll San Diego Marathon on June 1st! A contigent of HI runners will reunite and hang with many of our mainland Ohana whom moved to the mainland U.S.!

June will also bring about the 2nd Annual Hibiscus Half-Marathon and the Kona Marathon (run on the same course as the Kona Ironman Championship), with the always fun and challenging Volcano Runs just around the corner in July (featuring an altered course for the marathon and 10-miler...see website with the new course being posted in early May)!

Let's also not forget this Saturday marks the opening of the H.U.R.T. running season with the first run being the Top of Tantalus. Here's the rest of the running schedule!

Looking forward to another fun and competitive summer of running, cycling, swimming, triathloning, etc., not to mention the various race reports from all of our Ohana worldwide!

Have fun training & good luck in all you do!

Stroller Mom on a Roll!

2008-03-30T23:16:00.000-07:00

Seems like Stroller Mom is making up for lost time as she talked her third marathon this year (70th to date)! The latest was this past Saturday (29March2008), the National Marathon in Washington D.C, Maryland! Awesome job, Stroller Mommy, Daddy, and Co.! Always great to hear about the further adventures of our East Coast Ohana, which will be growing soon (more later)!

We had a stunning day for a marathon here. Cherry Blossoms were almost at full bloom, the weather was great, the race wasn't too crowded, particularly after the half marathoners finished their course. It was a nice race.

Stroller Daddy was wonderful company for the last eleven miles, meeting me after the fifteen mile marker, just in front of the Capitol. He ran with me with the intent to go as far as a race photographer to get a picture, then peel off and do something with the kids while I finished the race. We passed the photographer and kept running. Wasn't too long before he offered to just finish the race with me. It wasn't crowded, nobody seemed to mind he was there. In fact, most of the volunteers and other runners thought it was great that he was pushing the double. And he got to see parts of DC he'd never seen either.

The kids were enjoying it, so we kept going. We ran through the Ninth Street Tunnel from mile marker 17 to 18, which was about as long as the H3 Tunnel to Kaneohe, and the acoustics were fabulous, so we sang our version of the Oscar Mayer Bologna song, sung to the tune of Beethovan's Ninth Symphony... And "Play That Funky Music White Boy", where Grace chimes in with the chorus.

Both kids fell asleep as we were crossing the East Capitol Street Bridge in the final mile, making for charming finishing pictures. It was a wonderful way to finish out a marathon. I was really glad that not only did we have the space to do it, we made darned sure we weren't in anyone's way, but it seemed to be so well supported by the race volunteers. And nobody tried to pull him off the course at the finish. In fact, the seemed to be excited when family members finished with their runner. And there was plenty of space to do this. I don't like it when kids/dogs jump on the course to finish with a runner in a crowded race, so I certainly don't support it within my own family. But when you're the only runner in sight...

Aloha!

2008-03-30T00:33:00.000-07:00

It's always hard when one of the members of our Ohana departs. Today we bid farewell to yet another of our Ohana departing for the mainland (Boulder, Colorado then Reno, Nevada) to further pursue her career. 'Happy Trails' was a good road and trail runner, excellent archaeologist, and an overall great friend to all who knew her. She'll be sorely missed as the H.U.R.T. season kicks off in April, especially by 'Superwoman' (aka Former Maniac Groupie) makes bid to do her first trail season and this editor as he prepares to (re-)train to go for the H.U.R.T. 100(miler) in January 2009, those she 'sagged' for at H2V, as well as various others whom she ran and conversed with.

So what did we do as our last day together....run...the trails!!!! A group of us ran the ol' Tantalus Triple Trek route (at least part of one circuit) and just enjoyed the morning being together, away from the pounding of the road and in the solitude of nature.

Good luck 'Happy Trails', the entire Runners' HI Ohana wish you the safest of journeys and to stay in touch! Guess this means we'll be expanding our borders and places to go (run)! Aloha!

Congrats to our March Madness Manics!!!

2008-03-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

My apologies to all! Know this is a bit late but been busy with other aspects of my life (school, work, preping for Boston, etc.). Want to give recognition to our March Madness crew for their incredible dedication & performance in both completing the 2008 Run to the Sun (36.2 miles from Maui Mall in Kahalui up the slope of Haleakala to it's summit) and the 2008 Big Island (Hilo) International Marathon the following day. They endured early morning wakeup calls (230a Saturday then 330a Sunday for most), various climate changes (including cold, rain, low oxygen concentration causing hypoxia, and high UV exposure), and stress from being adequately prepared for doing both races!

Here's the members of our triumphant crew:

Former Maniac Groupie

Forever Four (formerly Forever Bronze)

'Onipa`a (Strong & steady)

Brother 'Shaka' (aka Purple)

'maniacles' (aka coachies)

'TC'/'Doc Marathon'

WilyCoyote

'da Man!'

Congratulation also to those whom completed the Hilo Marathon!

Welcome back to Brother Mark E Mark (aka Pohaku - the rock) who made his offical comeback to marathon running (at full-strength) following an ankle injury at the 2007 Volcano Marathon!

Thanks 'Boss' for your neverending support! We could never have done this without it and the rest of the Ohana!

Much Mahalos to 'Frayed Laces' who was our 'angel over our shoulders', being the all-around great support, driver, nurse, cheerleader, and everything else under the sun!

GO RUNNERS' HI OHANA!!!!

Great job all and can't wait til the next race whether it be here (on O`ahu), on the neighbor islands, or on the mainland U.S.! ~ed.

A Marathon Maniac is born (Part 1)!!!

2008-03-19T00:39:00.001-07:00

During our March Madness Weekend, two brave and strong-willed runners entered the promise land as they qualified to become members of those running crazies, the Hawai`i Marathon Maniacs! They were asked to jot down their thoughts, feelings, etc when they initially thought doing this, during the course of training and that weekend, and now that it's over and they've emerged successful. This first 'confession' comes from (ex-)Marathon Maniac groupie (she now needs to make up a pen/MM name):

I am not built to be a runner. My mother is always reminding me of that fact. I certainly do not have the physique of a runner but I believe I have the heart of a runner. That belief gave me the courage to take part in March Madness with my ohana. My first ultramarathon, Run to the Sun, and then Big Island marathon in Hilo the following day. 36 miles followed by 26. I have long wanted to try running an ultra. Just to see what it felt like to get past that 26.2 mile hurdle. I was hoping that sheer determination would get me through the weekend. Saturday morning dawned way too early for someone who will just never be a morning person. Three of us first timers took the early start at 3.30 am. Fortunately, some runners had volunteered to act as guides and a group of about 20 of us headed onward and upward from Kahului. The first part of the course was relatively flat and we settled into a nice relaxed pace. The first highlight of the run was passing a field of burning sugarcane. The sound was like fireworks and the glow so bright that it lit our path. Luckily for us the wind was in the right direction and smoke was not a problem. The runners that started at 4.30 am were not as lucky and had smoke and ash to contend with. The sun started to come up as we reached the lower part of Kula. A beautiful red glow as we looked up at the outline of Haleakala.

This run was really a treat for the senses; visually it was stunning but also the smells were amazing. The smell of cattle as we left Kahului, the flowers of Kula and then a eucalyptus forest as we headed into the switchbacks. The weather cooperated perfectly. It was a great day for a run and everyone seemed to be in high spirits. The faster runners all greeted me as they came past. I remember two things that people said. As one girl flew past me she said “ it`s okay I`m part of a relay team”. The fact I was standing taking a photograph should have been a clue that I was not there to race. I was savouring the moment.

After the 33 mile aid station I had enough energy to make a final push. I was determined to make the 10 hour time limit. As I passed one lady she asked my age group and when I told her she said “oh that`s okay, you`re one of those youngsters”. Being called a youngster made my day and I traipsed on towards the visitors centre glistening at the top of the world.

For me this was one of the best runs I have ever been part of. The volunteers were wonderful with lots of great food and encouragement. I remember getting to the aid station at mile 27 and being so happy that my legs were still moving and that I actually still felt good. They probably thought I was suffering from the altitude as I explained that this was the furthest I had ever run. Rounding the last bend at the visitors center, seeing people I knew and hearing my name was one of the best moments for me. I already know I want to be part of this great event next year.

We had to rush to catch our plane to Hilo. I am grateful that the guys let me shower as others did not have the chance. We met other members of our ohana in Hilo and after eating dinner we all headed for bed to catch a few hours of sleep. It was pouring rain that night, how unusual for Hilo, and I had already decided that if it was raining in the morning I was staying in bed. Well, it wasn`t raining so I had no excuse not to run. The race started at 6am and we wound our way down to Hilo town. Somewhere along the way the heavens opened. I had flashbacks to Honolulu but I ran most of the first ten miles with ohana so that kept my spirits up and stopped me dwelling on my goosebumps. The sun did come out for long enough to raise my temperature and the rest of the race was pretty uneventful. I remember getting to mile 13 and being amazed I was already half way. 26 miles suddenly seemed achievable. The out and back part of the course by the beach parks is always a great morale booster. The ohana all seemed to be doing well and I thank them all for their encouragement. All I had to do was get my tired little body over that finish line. For me Hilo was all about becoming a maniac. Completing two marathons in 48 hours. I did that and as an added bonus I beat last years time by 20 minutes.
I remember a photographer asking me how I could keep smiling and I explained to her that I was about to become a maniac. She told me I already was. High praise indeed as far as I was concerned. For a long time I have been chasing the Hawaii maniacs. They are my inspiration and more importantly my ohana. Previously I considered myself their groupie but now I am honoured to become a real one.
Congratulations to all the runners and thanks to the race organizers for a great weekend of running. A heartfelt mahalo to my ohana for making this March Madness a weekend I will never forget.
Maniac groupie.

March Madness...Ohana Victorious!!!

2008-03-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

With anticipation mounting, a euphoria of mixed emotions, and having completed thier training, nine members of the Runners HI Ohana went forth to attempt two days of running on two separate islands to complete a total of 100km or 62.2 miles! Not only did they battle the rigors of the constant pounding of their feet on the road, but also varying environments, fatigue, and time itself! All survived with smiles and fully elated with their results! Most importantly though was that they able to resist the temptation to give up. Congratulation to all for a job well done! A special congratulations to the two newest Hawai`i Marathon Maniacs...Heather & Wily Coyote!!!!

We want to also recognize a very special person to whom none of this could've been possible (or we would've been completely in total chaos). Much Mahalos to our 'guardian angel' Frayed Laces for all the support, care, and constant motivation during the entire March Madness event! She not acted as our driver but volunteered at practically every aide station for Run to the Sun, drove all abou Haleakala Highway checking on every member, saved Brother Shaka from hypoxia (read his account below), and cheered us on with every step! In essence she herself participated in March Madness and survived as she was with us in heart and spirit! Read about her exploits as a doctoral graduate student and ultra-runner in the making here! Congrats and a well deserved round of thanks from all of us (special award to come)!

The 10 from Maui met up with others in Hilo to take part in the Big Island (Hilo) International Marathon and Fun Runs the following day. Congrats to all who ran! A big welcome back to full strength to Brother Mark-E-Mark as he has completely recovered from his ankle injury! Way to go to WW for not only running Sunday but also swimming 2km for five consecutive days (Monday to Friday) prior to doing the marathon! Hey you're did 1/3 of a marathon!!!!

Here's a few comments and descriptions regarding the events from some of participants with more to come from the new Maniacs!

Run to the Sun 2008 (aka R2S):

Aloha Ohana...
Well nine of us all survived both the Run to the Sun and the Hilo marathon!!! And we could not have done it without our very vital support person Frayed Laces!!! Actually if it wasn't for her, I may not have completed the Run to the Sun!!!...REALLY!!!!! Basically what had happened was that I did not stick to the game plan and I threw out the "I'm going to just cruise the Run to the Sun" out the window and kept running up the hill like there's was no tomorrow. As I was working my way up, I noticed something going on within my head but I just could not pinpoint the exact feeling. I started feeling a little woozy but kept my steady pace nontheless. As Frayed Laces kept driving by, she would always ask how I was doing I would always say that I am doing fine but she had noticed my behavior changing. It wasn't until around the I think the mile 32 aid station that she had me start walking. Actually I had forgotten to fill up my water bottle so she had me go back to the aid station and fill it up. She kept insistiing that I should start walking and I initially would have nothing of that. As I left the aid station, my head was REALLY SPINNING BIG TIME!!! I think I started to run/jog but after a bit of that, I told myself "Maybe I'd better listen to her!!!" So I started to walk. The last 4 miles was a real struggle. It was more mental than physical. My body felt fine. My head though was definitely in the "Clouds"!!! I remember joking with some of the aid station volunteers because when I would stop to resupply, I was staggering. I could not stand still and I would tell the volunteers to stop moving around.
When I crossed the finish line, I was told to sit down. I was covered with a blanket and the first thing I told them was that I wanted to stay so that I can see everyone finish. Someone said if I feel better but I was told I needed to get back down to sea level ASAP otherwise. Sure enough, I was not feeling better so I was brought back down. It took a couple of hours once back at the hotel, but next thing I knew, I was back to normal. I guess that meant I had no excuse to not run the Hilo marathon the following day...

Aloha,
Shaka

March Madness Summary:

On Saturday we were among a full field of runners who did the Run to the Sun on Maui. This 36.2 run from sea level to the 10,023 feet summit of Haleakala was the first ultra for some in our group. Stiff achy muscles and a few blistered feet but everyone accomplished this first leg of our weekend journey. Descending the mountain, we barely made our connecting flight to Hilo. A couple of us didn't even have time to shower.

On Sunday we finished the Hilo Marathon. Everyone was so happy the course was only 26 miles and relatively flat compared to the previous day.Everyone had a tremendously successful weekend filled with many memories. Most notable will be "Shaka"s delirious antics and subsequent headache as he suffered from hypoxia at the summit of Haleakala.

-maniacles

Trainings Pau! Taper time!

2008-03-02T17:24:00.000-08:00

With two weeks remaining til March Madness, the gang put in their final weekend of hard training today. This included 12-16 miles of hill repeats on Saturday and a good 12-miler on Sunday. Despite a complaint or two about things, everyone seems excited and ready to go!

Since Hilo-to-Volcano, training consisted of various weekends of

hill climbs, long distance runs, weeks of high mileage (including two absurb individuals that had totals of 75 & 80 miles), and hill repeats. Now it's time to taper, recover, and get mentally ready.

Way to go gang!

Keepin' up with da Ohana!!!

2008-03-02T16:45:00.000-08:00

Wow! Our mainland Ohana sure have been busy even with the late winter storms coming in on the East and the cold, wet conditions in the Northwest! Congratulations! Great job and let us know how those mainland runs are going!!!

The Further Adventures of Stroller Mom & Dad, Gracie, & Ocean

GW Birthday Marathon, Maryland February 17, 2008 - Marathon #68 for Stroller Mom)

Aloha Everyone!It was a great day for a marathon... but what day isn't? Mostly overcast, some wind, but not nearly what it was last year. Temps got up into the lower 50's, but with the clouds and wind, I was glad I opted for tights. Quite a few Maniacs in sight.

I had my sights on hopefully breaking five hours, something I've only done once on this course. Stroller Dad suggested I just PR and get home earlier. So I was most pleased to come closer to his goal for me than mine. Did it in 4:33 by my watch, I'm very pleased with it. This is the run out almost two miles, do three loops, run back in two miles. Huge downhill on the way out, huge uphill on the way back in (after mile marker 25, yikes). Even with that performance, I'm very glad they let us slowpokes start an hour early.

Stroller Dad did an incredible job with the kids. I really missed my marathon partner!

B&A Trail Marathon, Maryland March 2, 2008 - Marathon #69:

We had a stunning day for the B&A Trail Marathon. Other than a jig and jag through a residential area at the start to add a mile and a strange circumnavigation of an empty parking lot at mile 19, it was entirely on an asphalt bike path -- double out and back. The weather was about as perfect as it gets here this time of year, mid 40's and sunny. A bit cold at the start, but sure warmed up nicely.I took the early start again, figuring the GW Birthday marathon was a fluke for me. Wanted to come close to finishing with Stroller Dad. It was exceptionally good for my ego to get out in front and lead the early start pack of about eight people. The regular marathoners and half marathoners appeared to start at the same time, I saw the first one at mile eight, after I hit the turn around at mile seven. That made the path a bit crowded until they all passed me headed out. I was very pleased to hit the turn off point where the marathoners headed straight and the half's peeled off to the left to finish. I checked my watch initially to see if I had managed to not shut it off (as I'd done two marathons ago), I checked it at the half way point and found myself running a much faster first half marathon than I'd ever done before at 2:12. Figured I was on track for under five hours and might possibly hit four and a half if I didn't lose too much in the second half. Entertained fantasies of possibly getting under four and a half and running a PR, but after a winter of sore ankles and a week where we all got the stomach flu...So I decided to just run and not look at my watch again. Somehow I managed to hold onto my "lead", the first marathoner passed me between mile 16 and 17. The first female marathoner passed me after mile 21. Since it was a double out and back, I had two opportunities to flash Stroller Dad, took definite advantage of those (it's how he knows I'm having a good run, among other things). The second one was while he was running his 18th mile, even more meaningful :)So yes, I was extremely delighted to come roaring into the finish at 4:22! My best time ever and I felt pretty darned good. Good enough to double back on the course and run in with Stroller Dad. He was coping with some IT band pain when I caught him, but managed to show a respectable stride for the race photographers and continue running after that. We sailed him on into the finish with smiles.

Post-race food was both plentiful and varied. A friend of mine from high school was the food coordinator and when she came across my entry as they were building bibs the other night, she got in touch with me both to touch base again (we haven't seen her since we left for Hawaii) and to see if there was anything special we wanted. The coffee and hot cider hit the spot, as did the pizza and homemade oatmeal cookies.A special mahalo to my parents for watching the kids. They do a great job and the kids behave so well for them. Grace was just wonderful when we got home -- she started my shower for me and picked out my clothes. Alas, we don't have a photo. The camera was set to video when we handed it off to someone to shoot the picture. We'll guide you to the race photos when they're on line.Sending very happy marathon vibes your way for R2S and Hilo! Wish we were there, of course!

The Red Rabbit migrating from the cold North to sunny Southern Cali

LA Marathon March 2, 2008:

Red Rabbit - Marathon Bib 11192 Snohomish, WA - USA Male Age 56

Start
10K 00:52:45
Half 01:51:31
30K 02:45:55
Finish 04:04:33

Time
Chip Time: 04:04:33
Clock Time: 4:07:30
Pace: 9:19
Congrats RR!!! Not bad for a Maniac who had to go into remission due to the bad north weather! Must've made a few detours to USC & UCLA to visit the cheerleaders! Better than Welsley College???

March Madness....Let the Insanity begin

2008-02-13T22:35:00.000-08:00

In a marathoner/endurance runner's version of doing the total 'dream weekend' there's only two weekends that really come to mind: the Martin Luther King, Jr weekend, when the annual HURT 100 is put on; and the weekend of March 15-16, 2008 when the Run to the Sun and the Hilo marathon have been scheduled on back-to-back days (quite a rare event)!
A group of our intrepid and daring Runners' HI/HI Marathon Maniacs have stepped up to bat, errr..., the starting line to attempt what may seem total luncracy!!! Here's a small preview of this psychotic weekend of pain & glory:

DAY 1: Saturday, March 15th

EVENT: 2008 Run-to-the-Sun

START TIME: 4:30 AM!!!

A 36-mile ultra marathon starting at sea level and climbing to the 10,023 ft. summit of Haleakala, legendary "Home of the Sun." This challenging course, is not for the novice marathoner. entrants must be 18 years or older and rigorously prepared to meet the challenge of the strict 10-hour time limit.

You can view the website here, along with links to the list of entrants, placement of aid stations, and other pertient race forms.

DAY 2: March 16th

EVENT: 2008 Big Island (Hilo) International Marathon

This certified, scenic course follows "the coast of old Hawaii" along the Pacific Ocean, past exotic waterfalls, over narrow bridges and lava beaches. Start to mile 10 is a net downhill of 500 ft., with some hills in the first 8 miles but fairly flat after that.
Hilo is located in one of the cooler, more lush parts of the "Big Island" of Hawaii, which translates into good running conditions.
Enthusiastic volunteers at well-stocked aid stations, awards given in various age groups, entertainment and great food at the Finish Line make this a memorable event for everyone.

Here's the link to the race site. There's also a 10.8-mile run and 5k run/walk events as well!

The training's begun and many have already wondered what'll be like come that weekend! FUN! FUN! FUN! Hope our van driver has those IV's and shots of tequila ready!

OBSESSION CONFESSION

2008-02-11T23:23:00.000-08:00

This from the Head HI Maniac himself (actually a previous article he wrote for the 'new' Athletes HI)...maniacles!!! Just in time for our 'March Madness' (more on that in the next entry):

I am a maniac. Really, I am a Maniac. And I am not alone.
Many people have hobbies that dominate their lives. For some it is fishing or golfing while for others it is hiking or surfing. For many these interests move beyond the average hobby becoming passions or obsessions. Collectors share a common bond. Whether they collect stamps, wines, baseball cards or vintage automobiles, their common interests bond these collectors. I collect marathons, and I am serious.
I started in 1994 with an innocuous goal of running the Great Aloha Run. It was quite a challenge, as I had never run longer than eight miles. My partners and I trained for months and successfully completed the eight and a quarter mile run from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium. It was difficult but we persevered. Bolstered, we decided to continue our training and attempt the Honolulu Marathon ten months later.
There is a saying, "Want to win a race, run a mile. Want to experience a life changing event, run a marathon". Crossing that finish line on Kalakaua Avenue at my first Honolulu Marathon was an epiphany. I was hooked and literally took the line and ran. The Honolulu Marathon became an annual event but I soon discovered that a change of scenery was good. I started to venture to the neighbor islands with my compadres Johnny and Alfredo. Hilo, Kona, Volcano and Maui host marathons each year and soon became annual events. We also discovered that there are numerous marathons each weekend on the mainland and looked for those that fit into our schedules and gave them a try.
It was at one of the races that I met others like me. I am a Marathon Maniac! I belong to an online group of runners, http://www.marathonmaniacs.com/. We are bonded by our common passion. We collect marathons. The Maniacs are represented at almost every marathon. There are currently about a dozen Maniacs from Hawaii and over seven hundred worldwide. The Maniacs are a diverse group of people who are bonded by a passion to complete marathons. Finishing times are not crucial for many of our members though there are many accomplished among us. Sam Thompson ran 52 marathons in 50 states in 50 days as a fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Katrina (doing so months before Dean K). It is not unusual to see a Maniac at the top of a leader board in local runs. However, most Maniacs are average "Joes". Few have the typical lean bodies of the elite runner. Looks belie the ability and determination of these older veteran runners.
The Marathon Maniacs have criteria for membership into the club. Stars are awarded based on levels of achievement. The minimum qualification for membership is completing three marathons in three months. Running a marathon in back to back days is also acceptable. These Maniacs begin at the one star or Bronze level. Those who complete 52 marathons or 30 states or 20 countries in a calendar year achieve the highest or ten star Titanium levels. There are a few who reach this goal each year.
My sixty plus lifetime marathons are moderate in the Maniac realm. Part time Hawaii resident, Robert Lopez will finish over 60 runs in 2007 alone. The quest for more stars drives some Maniacs to lofty goals. I hope to reach the century mark in a few years. After all, I am a Maniac! -Maniacles

Congrats to our rookie Ultramarathoners!!!

2008-02-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

Sorry this took a while, was waiting for some pics to get 'developed' from the Hilo to Volcanot 50k run. Yup, not totally reliant on the digital technology yet. Anyway this was a long time in coming but a big CONGRATULATIONS!!! to first-time ultramarathoners:

WilyCoyote

Mark 'Onipa`a One' (yellow Runner's HI singlet)

and Wyatt 'Smooth' (middle in yellow Runner's HI sleeveless jersey)

Another notch on the belts!!! Great job and keep up the good work
A special Mahalo Nui and Aloha to our new friend Hide!!! It was his first ultrarun (after finding out he couldn't do Hilo Marathon again...great substitute race)!! Congrats!!!

Motivation and Inspiration

2008-02-01T18:35:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine was wondering about how does one become motivated to keep running. Some of the new Ohana even wonder how and why one would want to endure such pain in taking on high endurance events. Moreover how do you keep yourself going when things start to fall apart during those long mileage races? There's more to 'because it's there'.
In the past few months, the Ohana has had many ups and downs, gains and losses. During this past Hilo to Volcano 50k, I dedicated those miles to a few people whose predicaments have made me wanna go those extra miles and do the unthinkable. Even though things were looking bad, I always had frame of mine that 'Hey this is nothing compared to what Valerie and her family and Laura have been going through!' Hence the push forward despite all the odds!
The Runner's HI Ohana would like to wish the Vedder family (view the website)and Laura (checkout her blog) much aloha and let them know that they are in our thoughts! We are Ohana and we're there for ya!
Speaking of which, in volunteering at the HURT 100 race, we remember one of the great road grinders of Honolulu who is currently stationed in Iraq. He actually ran 100 miles at the same time to commerate the race and the participants in it (as he was a entrant, see the article). Ben YOU DA MAN!
If that's not enough, while browsing the Ironman and Marathon Maniac websites, I found the best line of motivation: 'PAIN IS TEMPORARY, GLORY IS FOREVER!!!'

But I think Ben has an even better one (this is the motto for HURT!):

Hilo2Volcano...a brief overview (pt 1)

2008-02-01T01:14:00.001-08:00

Here's a short overview of events that occurred during the ascent up the slopes of Kilauea this past weekend. Pardon while the participants continue to either come down from Cloud Nine in completing thier first ultra-marathon or clearing the clouds from their crania...in my case I'm still 'defrosting'!
Race began at 6am with 'roll-call' by the 'Big Dog'! Was so dark that we barely find the start line! The ultramarathoners (foolhardy) took off half an hour prior to the start of the teams.

A light drizzle fell about 1/2 an hour into the event, with temperatures at sea-level in the cool 70s. That would change drastically as the runners made thier way up the 'hill'.
About 2 hours later, the rain started coming down. The lead pack had reached about 1000 ft amsl, with temps starting to drop a bit. While there were a few major ascents, most of the road from mile 11 on remained a steady incline that one would hardly notice if they weren't running 31.4-miles.

By mile 20, things were starting to unravel for some. It was getting cold as the runners got intot the 2000 ft elevation range. The clouds were rolling in and even though the showers became intermittent, there was a good deal of moisture in the air. The roads were pretty wet, so vehilces passing by would send a good mist into the air. Visibility began to decrease so one couldn't quite see what lay on the horizon.

In reaching the 3000 ft amsl level, there's alot that goes through one's head, especially after running over 3/4 of a marathon distance uphill and in bad weather conditions. How much further? Why am I doing this? I'm hungry!!! For my part... I'm frrrrreeeezzzing! (Having less than 5% body fat has it's disadvantages...having the common sense not to put on additional clothes makes it worse!)
The elevation brings about another little problem for some...hypoxia. The mind is already beleaguered by the distance covered, with the lower amount of oxygen concentration in the air things start to become a bit more dramatic.
Upon reaching mile 26, runners were to make a right turn onto Wright Street (no pun intended) and proceed PAST the finish area, continuing down about two miles until they sighted the turnaround area. Few problems here...small arrows along the very edge of the pavement don't constitute a good marker for drenched, cold & tired runners to look for; having these same people go past the finish seems like plain torture; and a turnaround point shouldn't be a small insignificant cone with a small u-turn arrow drawn around it! Anyway it was agreed upon by most that those last two miles back to Cooper Station were either the hardest miles ever ran or just plain fun!
All finished within the allowed seven hours, though a bit drenched and cold (some more than others). Nothing a nice hot tub, a few beers, and some great grinds can't fix.

We all had a VERY memorable experience. Want to thank all for thier support, especially our three SAG wagon drivers. Moreover want to send big Mahalos to our party host Billy who let us 'soak it up' in the tub and hang at his awesome house!

More pics from the day to come!

First race of 2008...an uphill Ultra?!?!

2008-01-24T22:45:00.000-08:00

This Saturday eight of our Runners HI Ohana will be participating in the Hilo to Volcano ultramarathon...a total of 31.4-miles or 50km. The words of the race coordinator sum things up the best: Starting at the entrance to Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo, the athletes will make their way up Highway 11, climbing from sea level to the 4,000-foot elevation and the finish line at Cooper Center in Volcano Village' (Hawaii Tribune Herald).

Wishing da Boss & Shaka Happy Birthday as they celebrate doing the best way possible...running! Good luck to the entire gang on their ultrarun! Stay tuned for reviews on this race!

Our newest reporter...the Bionic Woman

2008-01-23T01:09:00.000-08:00

As we train and run all these events, especially those 'fun' marathons and ultras, we all go through various injuries and setbacks. During 2007, I met a intriguing runner and totally awesome person. She just ran her first marathon in Honolulu this past year but was seriously injured in the days leading up to it. However through pure determination and total perseverance she completed it under the severest of stress and pain. As she recovers and goes through the various stages of returning to running, I asked her to post articles about her various experiences (i.e. PT, training for her return to running and next marathon). Moreover she'll also be adding a perspective in reporting about different aspects of the races that we don't always see...from working in the trenches (aid stations & SAG wagons) to coordinating races. Look for future posts by 'frayedlaces' soon!

-RunnersHI Ohana blog editor (until I find a good blog name)

YOUR FIRST MARATHON? GO FOR IT!!

2008-01-17T22:54:00.000-08:00

Each February, more than 20,000 runners and walkers participate in the annual Great Aloha Run (GAR). For many, successfully completing the eight mile course from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium on President’s Day is the culmination of months of training. Setting and reaching this goal is a high achievement. So, what is next?

You could take a break until later in the year when you resume your preparation for next year’s Great Aloha Run. But it would be a shame to lose the healthy benefits of conditioning you have attained to this point. Hopefully the habits you developed through your months of training are now a part of your weekly routine. Why not continue and set your sights on completing your first marathon?

Training for a marathon may not be as daunting a feat as you might imagine it to be. It just requires you to use the fitness level you’ve achieved to increase your mileage. However, attempting your first marathon will take a commitment of time if you want to complete it successfully. While there are other marathons on the neighbor islands, the Honolulu Marathon in December is a perfect goal for the beginner. This end of the year run affords time to train properly for your first marathon. A well organized, participant- friendly event, the Honolulu Marathon allows runners of all abilities, from novice to advanced, to blend into the crowd.

The key over the coming months is to maintain your GAR conditioning, continuing to build a base by increasing your running mileage. Set realistic goals to your individual ability. Gradually increase the distance of your long runs. Overzealous expectations or excessive training may lead to injuries that are discouraging setbacks. The anxiety of the challenge you accept is alleviated with knowledge and preparation. Books, magazines and online sites are valuable resources, filled with programs to help you prepare for your first marathon.

Additionally, Oahu has many training groups, some free (Honolulu Marathon Clinic) and some for a fee. These groups have experienced leaders who will answer questions and guide you towards your goal. Find a training partner. Meeting with friends helps develop a routine for training. The camaraderie you share will motivate and help keep your long runs interesting.

As your training progresses, run a few races in the summer months to gauge your improvement. Beginning each August the Mid Pacific Road Runners Club (MPRRC) sponsors a series of runs to prepare local runners for the December marathon. These MPRRC runs progress from 15K (9.3 miles) to 30K (18.6 miles). Participation in these runs swells as the marathon approaches.

The marathon is a personal challenge where individual success is not necessarily determined by time. Crossing the finishing line is the measurement of achievement for all. Paraphrasing a septuagenarian friend , a veteran of thirty-plus marathons, “It does not matter what time you finished, all the shirts (finishers) are the same color.” The marathon distance is not a requisite for a healthy lifestyle, but completing a marathon can be a life changing event.

maniacles