This was a 5k night run at Kualoa Ranch. Some people (probably because they didn't read the…read moreinstructions didn't register) didn't get a headlight. If you didn't have a light, it probably was a little more challenging as this was at night, hence the name "Nite Run." Right from the start one of our friends got injured as she didn't see the cattle guard and her foot went through the metal bars making a huge bump on her shin. What was messed up was that the other cattle guards were coned off to avoid them and to go around but not the first one. I felt bad for her but when she said she was going to suck it up and still do it I kicked some dirt on her and said see you at the finish line. I'm joking, I just kicked some dirt on her. Like I said the run was a 5k. It was for the most part on a dirt roadway. There was a pretty steep part that kind of kicked my butt. I thought I was going up Koko Head for a minute. Argh, Kill me now! lol They said there were supposed to be some kind of brain test or something as well as strength test which they had. I believe they went over the question and what the correct answer was supposed to be but what looked like a place they might have had someone asking you a question, there was no one, no one anywhere which was a little disappointing. Maybe next time they will have something. Another thing that was disappointing was that you didn't have to do the strength test and made it optional. One was you had to grab a sandbag (maybe around 10lbs) and carry it and go under a couple of beams. Next one was walking on rope (around 20'). It did get bottle necked as some people took forever to cross and when some fell they ran back and tried again. The wait time was around 12 minutes or so. They had at least 5 different lines. They also had another type of obstacle course... If you remember the movie Pretty Woman when they were on the Polo Field and the announcer says to "avoid the Steaming Divot." That's right, there were horse manure here and there that you had to hopscotch around. As most know Jurassic Park was filmed there and one part of the course you could hear dinosaurs in the background. Just thought that was cool of them. Maybe if one came out I would of ran faster. I heard that they ran out of some headlamps and t-shirts but was able to get more by the time people finished. Water stations were around the course. Free water, gatorade. At the end they brought out some free desserts. Had a couple of food vendors, music, Mc, and acrobatic act. Pretty fun event, especially when doing it with cool people.

Recently did the "Nite Run" at Kualua Ranch. I have to say, I LOVED it! It was not only fun (at…read morenight! Headlamps! Costume contest! Obstacles! Cows mooing LOL!) BUT it was pretty tough!! After doing the Glow Hawaii Run the night before (easy, shorter than advertised) it was nice to be able to really push myself and race. The trail was mostly dirt road but there were areas that were gravel road, grassy areas,etc. Started up a hill, did an obstacle, more killer hill, followed by another hill. Didn't expect that! Race was also longer than a 5k, didn't expect that either LOL! ;) There were a few cow patties and cattle gates so just trying not to break an ankle kept me really paying attention to where my feet were LOL. The whole set up was great. Great food venders, plenty of potties, easy packet pickup and we parked pretty close to the race area so heading back to the car was easy if you needed to put stuff away. NO FEE for parking. Loved that too. So many races make you park far away, pay for parking, pay to "store" your stuff they give you at the race,etc. I loved that I didn't feel nickel and dimed for this event. I purchased it as a Living Social deal and it was easy-peasy to get my tshirt, headlamp and number. LOVED that we were all chipped, gave me more incentive to run and try to get a decent time. They did run out of headlamps w/batteries (LOL) but we got there early so we got ones w/batteries. I'd definitely do this race again. I can't wait until they plan another one!!

Been volunteering for the Na Wahine Festival for several years now…read more K.C. and Try Fitness provide women of all ages, shapes, sizes and skill levels to participate in a multi-sport event of a Sprint Triathlon, Super Sprint Tiathlon, Sprint Duathlon or Swim and Spin. A great opportunity for fitness in a nurturing environment and an inspiring event to realize that being healthy is an attainable lifestyle and an investment well worth the effort. Try Fitness!

Participant: As a participant, this triathlon was my first…read moreever triathlon entered in 2013. Na Wahine means the women, so this is an all female race. Which means that that is the best race ever!!! Race director is KC Carlberg and she's been in the business forever as a triathlon coach, athlete and race director. Which means, she knows her shitttttt. I participated in the super sprint distance and finished at a decent time. The super sprint distance is a great distance to get your feet wet in the triathlon world as each leg is relatively short and doable to train on your own (but by no means easy). My co-worker and I trained together during the summer months, about 3 months, 3-4x a week, for this race (usually held the second week of September) and I would say we did relatively ok for our first ever triathlon. Plus, they always do a drawing for a free bicycle (donated by IT&B) for participants (must be present to win) and my roommate won this year (2013)!!! WHOOOHOOO. Volunteer: After participating in this race, in the two years following, I have been a volunteer setting up bike racks the day prior to race day. On race day, I'm usually around handling out water to participants on the run, etc. It's great giving back to a race that got me started in triathlon. Super Sprint Triathlon Distance: 250 meter swim at Queen's Beach 12 mile bike ride from Kapiolani Park to Kahala Mall gas station and back 1.5 mile run around Kapiolani Park

This was the first year they started this race. I had the pleasure of following and taking photos…read moreof the brave cyclist from the start to the finish line in the comfort of my SUV. This race was nothing but a hill sprint! Hard? It looked hard! I was tried just watching the cyclist climb the elevation of "Pineapple Hill".

Shane is a really nice guy! However, I personally had much better experiences with Jake…read more(Manifesting Aloha) and the surf instructors at Moku/Moniz. At Moniz, I would recommend any of the teachers there. At Moku, I would suggest Ella, Cam, Sky, Kota, Corbin, Ray or Max.

I took a semi-private surfing lesson with my 10 year old son. I was expecting my son to quit early…read moredue to his anxiety, but he had a fantastic time. Shane and Neil were wonderful instructors, and they made us feel very comfortable. My son rode with Shane, and stood on the board with his assistance. It meant the world to me that he tried something new and enjoyed every moment. Neil was my instructor. He was engaged the whole time, and he even helped another surfer who was struggling with his board. With Neil's help and instruction, I comfortably rode the waves bunch of times. It was one of the most memorable moments of our trip, and I look forward to surf again! Thanks guys!

I had a very fun morning class with Dennis and just two other women at Waikiki yoga! What a treat…read moreto have such a small class and in such a beautiful setting with an instructor who is fun and responsive throughout the class. I enjoyed trying out the included equipment (balls, straps, barres). It challenged my balance and core stability in a way typical yoga does not. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend this class!

in my last few hours in Waikiki I decided to hit the beach to do some solo yoga. I came across this…read moreclass and walked over and asked to join. the instructor, Dennis was so friendly and said yes with no hesitation. it felt divine to have stumbled across them. when I come back I absolutely plan on attending more classes both beachside and in studio! Mahalo Dennis!!!

By far one of the more fun mud runs I've done! We ran the 2019, 10am heat and it was a blast ever…read morein the drizzle! The obstacles were the right level of challenging for the casual OCR'er though I wish the high walls had footholds for those of us height and upper body challenged lol! The river walk was refreshing after the mud crawls but definitely watch your knees because the net crawl included lots of rocks! Outside of the obstacles, the event was SUPER organized even with the ranch tour groups passing us by. Seriously will run this one again BUT will have to take a 4-wheel drive truck to get OUT of the parking lot. Huge thanks to the guy behind us that helped us get the car out of the mud!

Yelp 365 Challenge x 2 #277/365…read more Yelp 100 Challenge #21/100 You always read about supporting local and buying local. But, you mainly associate it with food (produce or meats), clothing, household items, etc. However, here is something local in regards to sporting events! And not just any sporting event but an OBSTACLE COURSE RACE / MUD RUN EVENT! I'm so surprised that there is no review of this event unless it is under a different name? The Makahiki Challenge has been around for the past three years I believe because I remember one of my friends sharing about her experience last year or the year prior but I paid it no mind until the Warrior Dash. One of my co-workers was so hyped about completing the Warrior Dash and the fact that it was stress-free for her because there were no penalties if you decided not to complete an obstacle, that she was anxious for the Warrior Dash to roll around again. I shared with her about the Makahiki Challenge. She signed up. I decided to sign up and surprise, surprise...my family signed up too. What is the Makahiki Challenge? From their website info: Makahiki Challenge is meant to be an annual challenge for the people of Hawaii and it's visitors. It is a chance to compete, challenge ourselves, celebrate, enjoy, and respect this beautiful island that has continued to provide for us. Here's a few more things about the Makahiki Challenge: -It's held at Kualoa Ranch (same location as the Spartan Race) -It's 3+ miles -10 to 12 obstacles, which includes an AMAZING huge slide! -Cool swag -Beautiful finisher's medal -Paina after-party (I didn't get to stay but it looked fun and crazy!) with well-known local bands -Beautiful scenery -It's filled with aloha and full of fun -The price of the event was really reasonable for an obstacle course/mud run event -No penalties if you do not or cannot complete an obstacle -Local sporting event with local sponsors (Note: If you're a company looking to sponsor or volunteer check them out if you want to help out this event. It's worth it!) The 2014 Makahiki Challenge was my first year to do this event and I have to say that it was one of the most fun events especially because my family joined in (we created our own team name and wore team shirts). The registration and packet pick-up was smooth. The obstacles were challenging, fun yet sturdy (I still can't get over the slide). It didn't matter if it rained in the 2nd half of the race because it was getting too hot anyways. From the parking to the vendors, everyone was super friendly and helpful. In my opinion, if you're looking for an event that is not really intimidating, family-friend/group oriented or individual and local with the taste of the islands, be on the lookout for the next Makahiki Challenge (2015!!!) because you don't want to miss out on this obstacle course/mud run event. Check out their website or Facebook page!

After completing the Kapilina NiteRun earlier this summer, I got emails about the Kailua NiteRun…read morehappening on October 10, 2015. Since I didn't want to pay to actually run the 5k, I decided to volunteer instead. I eagerly signed up to volunteer from 4pm to 9pm as a Family Fun Fair Attendant. As a volunteer, it was pretty unorganized. They didn't have any work available so they had us sit around for a substantial amount of time. I even asked if I could grab a bite nearby and come back! Even after being gone for more than 30 minutes, still no work. LOCATION/PARKING: The run was held at Kawainui Marsh (the closest address is 910 Kailua Road). They had tents set up for easy spotting! Parking available on the streets or at Kailua High School. Shuttle buses were available to bring runners to the start line from Kaiser High School. ACTIVITIES/VENDORS: This particular NiteRun does not have all the vendors and inflatables like Kaka'ako, Kapilina or Haleiwa! Many people were disappointed in this. However, DNLR does not allow much on their protected lands. They did however have Jamba Juice and Coca Cola, free smoothies/coffee/Powerade/coconut water/Honest Tea, etc. Informal costume contest at the end of the run! RACE INFO: If you're running no need to come really early but if you haven't already picked up your packet before race day, come a little earlier so you can put your packet away! They don't really hold anything for you! You receive a free headlamp with entry and some coupons for Sports Authority and Jamba Juice! Race length is 5k or 3.1 miles! Not officially timed (no timing chips). Run begins once it gets dark and often starts later than scheduled. :( On this particular route, be sure to have enough lights! You run along the marsh, partly on the pavement and a good amount of time on gravel! Since it wasn't busy, the volunteer coordinator let me run! Let me tell you, running on gravel with little to no light is worse than walking in heels! Wobble this way, wobble that way! Just be careful. People are running with costumes and everyone is soooo friendly! I kept pace with several guys and they were cheering everyone on! How do you talk and run at less than an 8 min mile pace! Gah I'm panting! And of course, I try to not sound like a gorilla so I'm breathing quietly as I pass people and as soon as I'm a good distance away, GASP FOR AIR PLEASE! Inhale like there's no tomorrow! SNACKS: Grab more Jamba Juice smoothies or Coca Cola products to replenish your energy stores after the run! Muffins, oranges, bananas, trail mix, and cookies were available also! Nom nom nom. Especially when you're panting because you're so out of shape that a 5k makes your squirm. PRICING: Entry fees are $39.50 for adults, $25.50 for children ages 10-17. Same day registration is $49.50. Save $10 if you are a student, military, or HGEA member! Look on Groupon for specials to save money too for individuals like me who are too old to be considered a child, is unfortunately a wannabe student, is to weak-minded to be in the military and I don't even know what HGEA is. Time to Google! RANDOM FACTS: Each NiteRun benefits a different organization. This particular run benefitted the Boy & Girls Club of Hawaii - Windward. Come to the next event, Haleiwa NiteRun, on December 19, 2015 at the Haleiwa Beach park! This one should have all the festivities! Any takers?! :D

5k fun run in dark, lit by glowsticks? Sign me up!…read more I couldn't make either packet pickup and arrived an hour ahead for late packet pickup. I was surprised to find no line, just walked right up, signed the waiver on an iPad, and had my bad and t-shirt within a couple of minutes. It was smooth, definitely something other events could replicate. I walked around the fair / market for a bit. Luckily, I had come early because traffic was looking like a mess. The start was a bit confusing though - everyone had naturally lined up at the starting gate, then we were moved towards the mauka side near the stage. I couldn't hear anything, then we all started walking back to where we were...then right out of the road! The course map then made sense - we walked across the street to another starting area, complete with an inflatable arch and tents. It was dark by the time we started, which was good. It kind of lost steam though. The first part of an event is usually energy charged and exciting, this one wasn't. A few people were commenting on this, but oh well. We were off! I heard about the Seattle night run and was expecting some strobes, flashing lights, or something. The course was mostly just a jog in the night, with an occasional halogen light. The aid station at the halfway point was nice though, plenty of volunteers, a band, lots of cold water. The cold water was welcome - and full bottles of water! Think that's the first time I've seen that at an aid station. Then, just the light jog back. I was expecting a small congregation, but most people just walked back. I'm guessing there were 200 people, mostly teens (fitting though, given all the proceeds went to the Boys and Girls Club). Was a cool idea and if they could find out a way to pump some more energy in it, might go again.

This a small little fitness station located in Queen Kapiolani Regional Park. The equipment shows…read moresome signs of wear, but is still in great shape. I regularly saw organized fitness classes working out near the equipment. Some of the equipment at the station include monkey bars, sit up benches, pull-up bars, and parallel bars. All of the equipment is calisthenic equipment that utilizes the user's body weight. There are instructions posted by each piece of equipment that instructs the user on its proper use. The area has an ample amount of shade and located near a restroom facility and the tennis courts. There is metered street parking available within a reasonable walking distance for those driving to the fitness station. This is a decent alternative for those that want to take their workout to another level and bring their workout outside.

I can't or won't say that I, routinely, work out here because it's WELL ABOVE my current fitness…read morelevel. It's quite motivating to be outdoors and under the view of Diamond Head. Plus, this exercise station reminds me of playing in my childhood playground...whoops, I digress. However, this fitness area is a great outdoor open-air alternative gym. Because it's outdoors, don't be expecting someone to be passing out fresh towels or have shock absorbent floor pads.. Nope, you'll get dirt for your floor and you have to bring your own towel(s) and your own rehydrating beverage of your choice. There are chin-up bars, monkey bars, an abdominal station, parallel beams, leg lift station and a step-up station. All of the equipment will challenge you to use your body weight and resistance to gravity. There are exercises posted that will target each body point to help you build strength and flexibility. Make sure that you read the instruction boards for proper use and form to take on the equipment otherwise, you could injure yourself. This exercise station is conveniently located near the Makai side of Kapiolani Park's tennis courts and restrooms. There are metered parking stalls facing the station but, you can also find street or free lot parking. #305