Aloha!
The 16th Annual Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday, August 31st was a tremendous success, welcoming our second-largest group of runners from 48 states and 18 countries under overcast skies that offered a welcome relief from the sun.
The Sports and Fitness Expo, presented by Wilcox Health and hosted at the stunning Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, was a resounding success. We welcomed a record number of vendors who showcased their fantastic products and services, with many selling out and already excited to return in 2026. The enthusiasm from participants was evident, as our newly upgraded participant shirts and merchandise were a huge hit, proudly worn throughout the weekend while running, shopping, or dining around Kauai.
The 12th Annual Keiki Run was a smashing success, with over 200 children ages 2-12 joyfully chasing an impressively speedy chicken, bringing laughter and energy to the event! Sponsored by Wilcox Health, this beloved run continues to inspire kids to get outside, stay active, and embrace fitness from an early age.
Event day kicked off early at Poipu Shopping Village, where our amazing sponsor, Kauai Coffee, brewed their locally grown and roasted coffee, complemented by yogurts, bananas, and baked goods for a pre-race boost. As we moved to the starting line, flickering tikis set an authentic Hawaiian scene, followed by a traditional Hawaiian blessing with dancing, music, and the ceremonial blowing of shells to launch the race.
Our aid stations were brimming with Powerade, Waiakea Water, ice, Gu at two stops, and plenty of aloha to keep runners fueled through the challenging course. The record turnout of spectators from Poipu to Omao, Lawai, and Kalaheo was truly special, with locals cheering, hosing down runners, and sharing homemade treats, candy, fruit, and even a few beers and shots, embodying the aloha spirit that makes this event unique.
At the finish line, Koloa Landing Resort provided a breathtaking oceanfront setting with a grassy recovery area, stocked with Rice Crispy Treats, fig bars, chocolate milk, Coke, Diet Coke, bananas, chicken and veggie wraps, Hawaiian chips, and ice-cold Michelob Ultra and Big Wave. Runners raved about the experience, and we’re thrilled to see so many repeat participants from Kauai, Hawaii, and beyond, supported by our dedicated volunteers and staff who pour their hearts into this world-class event.
The course, with its heat, hills, and humidity, tested runners’ resilience, and we’re proud of everyone who conquered it and earned our favorite medals yet…durable enough to double as bottle openers!
Planning for 2026 is already underway, with early sign-ups pouring in, and we expect to sell out by early summer, capping at 2,400 participants to preserve our intimate experience due to limited hotel rooms, rental cars, and parking on Kauai. We can’t wait to welcome you back on Sunday, September 6, 2026! Bring a friend or family member to share this paradise event, and please email or reach out on social media with any feedback to help us make next year’s race the best yet.
Warmest aloha, Jeff and Liz Sacchini.