For years, I have told my friends and coworkers about how amazing the Hapalua is, so when one of my colleagues asked if I wanted to participate with her, I knew I would regret it if I didn't go! Since we were just planning to walk, I set up an 8-week training regiment to prepare for the day and jumped on a plane with her a couple days before the race! Packet pickup was pretty easy, although it was moved from the Convention Center to the Blaisdell, which meant paid parking was needed. Some of the vendors were incredibly pushy this year, but everything else went smoothly. The Hapalua's partnership with the Outrigger Hotels made it easy to be close to the starting line. The morning of the race, we walked to our section in the back and waited with anticipation for the signal to begin. Although intense storms were expected, we lucked out and barely even faced a drizzle during mile 9. There were plenty of hydration and medical stops along the way, and many people came out to cheer on the racers from Waikiki to Kaka'ako. Everyone was so kind, supportive, and joyful--just like I remembered from my previous Hapalua races. Of course, everyone looks forward to the snacks at the end, especially those fresh malasadas. (It's amazing how motivating those beautiful sugar crystals are when your legs are screaming at you!) We happily enjoyed our treats as we walked back to the hotel with our medals. I don't know the next time I'll be able to participate in the Hapalua, but I'll gladly give up my precious vacation days the next time I'm invited to go! read more

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Race organizers do not communicate well and do not respond or call back to your inquiries. This comment is not on the race itself or the experience. The course has always been fun. read more

The Hapalua - Hawaii's Half Marathon I recommend this half marathon for beginners, intermediates, and even running pros because it's fun. This marathon is well organized and a big thank you to all the volunteers. The race starts at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, heads past the Convention Center, and ends at Kapiolani Park (near the zoo). The course if fairly flat until you get to mile 10, which is uphill towards Diamond Head. I did this race with my wife and her family, which made the race even more special. Because the race was out and back, we're also able to see each other throughout the race. I had a "good for me" pace going until the one of the runners in front of me stopped and I literally ran her over. She was okay and was not injured, but still I felt bad. She wanted to wait for her husband, and I waited with her. I'm not going to lie; this was my excuse to take a breather. After exactly 8 minutes (felt like 20 minutes), we were both back to running. Everything was smooth until miles 10 to 12 when the course is mostly uphill. This was a beast and a lot of people, including me, walked it. I found myself walking majority of miles 11 to 13 and remember that runner I accidentally knocked over? Well, she ran past me on mile 11. Medals are earned and given immediately after the finish line. After the finish line is a cold shower, which I have never seen at a race before. Post race fuel includes malasada, moon pies, bananas, wafers, gels, and water. Huge plus! Overall, great race. I'd do it again. read more

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What we do for a malasada around here. We wake up at 3:30am to prepare for a 6:00am run around the island! Bravo to JOSPHAT TANUI from Kenya! He finished in 1st Place at the Hapalua breaking Honolulu's half marathon record with a time of 01:02:32!! Amazing what a human can do! Well, at least for some of us humans. At his record finish, I was jogging past Iolani Palace, right about Mile 5. LOL. Now that you have my pace in perspective, you can choose to read on or not.... For the 2019 Hapalua, there were 7540 starters and as far as I know, each and every participant received a medal, a purple dry-fit t-shirt, banana, malasada, shave ice, and a bottle of Lanikai pineapple juice. Almost all organized runs in Hawaii are open to all althetic types and age groups, and the Hapalua is no exception. It's even open to international registrants with Japan Airlines being the major sponsor. The weather this year made the 13.1 mile course feel like a breeze. Trade winds + cloud coverage = "cold" in Hawaii and made for perfect running weather. Thanks to all of the volunteers who handed out water, Gatorade, and Vaseline, as well as to the bands, DJ's, taiko drummers, and cheerleaders holding up hilarious signs. All of these peeps made the last 4 miles, a trek around Diamond Head, very entertaining! What's neat about this run is it features 'The Chase' in which the best local runners, Team Hawaii, get a 6 to 24 minute head start/handicap on some of the best pro runners in the world. The pros chase down Team Hawaii to the finish line and are winners are recognized at the Awards Ceremony approximately 3.5 hrs after gun time at Kapiolani Park. The Prize Purse for 2019 was $11,000 and the 1st Place Runner received $5,000. I took off a star because the 2-day bib pick-up/Expo at the Hawaii Convention Center was a bit underwhelming. Also, they couldn't find my bib. After going back and forth between the Pick-up and Help desks, a new number was eventually assigned to me. Because of the new bib, I had my concerns about my personal info and ended up going back on Day 2, curious to see if my bib happened to be back in the bin. Low and behold they had found my original bib! It would've been nice if someone called to tell me. Guess it was good practice for them in preparation for the Marathon in December. They'll need to have their A-game on when registrations are upwards of 20k people from all over the world. read more

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Flew in from San Diego, I've chased this dream for 5 years and after finally fulfilling this dream by participating at this amazing half marathon event, this is now my all-time favorite half marathon course and running event ever. I just love the course from running through the amazing, astonishing and beautiful Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Park (even though it was challenging but definitely worth it) overviewing the Pacific Ocean. This is the most fun run I participated due to the atmosphere of other participants from local to other parts of the United States and other countries, the volunteers and the coordinators, especially the post-race party. As much as I love the half marathon courses in San Diego, it will never be as beautiful and prestigious as this course. Just a friendly reminder, if anyone plans to participate this half marathon in the future, please don't forget to always hydrate and use sunscreen, due to the weather forecast that it can be hot and humid (fortunately, it wasn't as hot and humid as I predicted and felt the breeze almost throughout the course). I will definitely return in the near future to participate running this amazing, prestigious, fun and memorable half marathon again! I crossed this off my bucket list! Mahalo and Thank you for making this memorable a HUGE COMEBACK and MAKING MY DREAMS COME TRUE!!! read more

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Thank you so much to the volunteers especially the ones at the last three medical/water stations. The last medical and water station at Diamond Head's "Heartbreak Hill" gave me and my running buddy, Rema ice packs and water but offered bandages and vaseline for blisters too. They told us that the race staff wanted to close down their station but they advocated for us slow runners to stay open for us and I am truly grateful for them. The second to the last aid station actually had a nurse that I used to work with as volunteer in the hospital, Phil; he was great to see but I was too busy trying to get bandages for my blisters and finishing the race to catch up with him. I appreciate all the volunteers at the water and aid stations especially those staying open for the slow and last few runners of the half marathon race. Thank you to the race staff for having malasadas and bananas at the finish line for us and I got the last Lanikai Juice cold pressed drink because they handed the rest to the volunteers before the last few runners got to the finish line. Thank you for having the self serve water station at the finish line open as well as the main medical tent. They also ran out of moon pies and Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts at the finish line. HPD moved everyone onto the sidewalk three hours in the race when most walkers and slow runners were in Waikiki at the moment making it harder and slower to continue on the race due to the crowds on the sidewalks, waiting for stop lights and watching out for cars on smaller two line roads. The HPD vehicle annouced to everyone to move to the sidewalk as roads reopened. The roads were supposed to be closed along the race route until 11 am or 12 pm but they started reopening roads at 9 am. I didn't appreciate the roads being reopened earlier than the permit and signs stated nor the early closures of water stations along the way. We had to figure out the race route along the way, I memorized most of it but looked up the route from the website to make sure we were going in the right direction along the route near and around Diamond Head to the finish line. From Monsarrat Ave to getting up and down Diamond Head Road on "Heartbreak Hill" was kind of dangerous at times with unpaved sidewalks, switching between different sides of the street and little water stations along the way as they all shut down after reaching Waikiki. They only had three aid stations still open around Diamond Head: one Gatorade station still open, one aid station near by KCC and one combined water and aid station at the last 2 miles of "Heartbreak Hill" after all the aid stations from Downtown to Waikiki. At least this course only had one huge hill, compared to the Honolulu Marathon with "Heartbreak Hill" and all the Kahala Hills (there's about 4 or 5 hills there) and you have to do it twice to get to Hawaii Kai and back in the marathon. I would like if this race started at the same time as the Honolulu Marathon and Start to Park 10k at 5 am instead of 6 am, so we could all get less hours in the sun and finish before it gets too hot and humid. I also would like that they didn't open up the roads so soon, it made the slow runners and walkers feel like second class people and inadequate compared to the fast runners that already finished the half marathon at that time. The packet pickup was easy and pretty good sized Hawaii Convention Center Ballroom with bib numbers laid out, help desk, bib chip check and clothing drop bags. They had a few vendors from their official race merchandise, Hawaii running lab, Lilikoi Wear, Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club, Phiten, Blondi Band, Oakley Sunglasses, and Hidow. I only brought a backpack, two hats: one for me and another for a friend at the official race merchandise store and got a muscle FDA approved massager at Hidow to help with the post race recovery and any muscle tension I have build up normally in my neck and shoulders. Overall, it was a good and fun race thank goodness for Rema, we helped each other a lot along the way of the race with salt tabs, Nunn and Advil/Tylenol. I didn't mind that she slowed me down since I was able to keep a consistent pace but she was in pain and needed to rest. It gave me time to massage my tightening thighs and to think of taking breaks when cramping because we both needed OTC pain meds near the end. I would do this half marathon again especially with my race buddy, Rema! Thank you so much to the volunteers, race staff and HPD! Thank you to all the people who helped set up, break down and coordinate this race! Thank you to Rema for being a wonderful person and race buddy! read more

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I am not a runner. I hate running. I like to exercise, but always at a gym. I just don't like to RUN. This review is through the eyes of a brand new runner with no prior race experience. I have nothing to compare this race to, because this was my first race. SHORT VERSION Very well organized. Nice route, lots of road closures and porta potties on the course. Aid stations every 2 miles or so. Very nice tshirt and medal. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped set up, fill the drink stations, first aid stations, and to the organizers for putting on this event. LONG VERSION The Hapalua is the half marathon race put on by the Honolulu Marathon in April. (I've been told HAPA means portion and LUA is short for elua, the number 2 in Hawaiian...so two portions=half(?)) The 13.1 mile course starts in Waikiki, runs through Chinatown and back through Waikiki, up Monsarrat and around Diamond ahead to finish at Kapiolani park. They have checkpoints at the 5k 10k 15k markers and not the mile markers which is confusing to me and hard to explain to my kids how to track my progress because I only know my pace per mile, not in km. I guess if you run a lot, you know your 5k pace (!?) but I don't. Nowhere else in the USA do we measure things by kilometers, why do they do that? Maybe you elite runners can explain that one to me. REGISTRATION: The earlier you register, the cheaper it is. Over 7000 people registered for the 2016 race. You should register early or look for an online coupon code for discounts. This race is expensive but you get what you pay for, and this race had everything you need (water, Gatorade, satohap, gel, first aid, and potties...I heard there is a cheaper half marathon here but they don't have porta potties). PACKET PICKUP: This year it was at the Convention center, $10 for parking(!!), and coincided with Kawaii Kon, some crazy anime event. The pickup was pretty well organized but much smaller than I expected and they gave out the Tshirts with the packet pickup so you didn't have to go back after the race. THE CHASE: the race within the race. Team Hawaii is a group of the fastest runners in Hawaii. They were given a head start (each had different handicaps, but around 20 min before the start time, the first group left the start line), and were being chased by these Kenyan world record holders, who started just a few minutes before the rest of us. It was cool to see them coming back in as I was just heading out. Blink and you'll miss them. They are fast. THE RACE: mostly flat for the first 9 miles. And then this hill creeps up on you for the next mile. and then it's pretty much all flat except for another little minor hill. I trained for 4 months for this race. Thanks to fellow yelper Chad O for making me run when I didn't feel like running. We ran Monsaratt hills around Diamond Head on a regular basis. I also do strength training and yoga and I felt okay when I crossed the finish line and got rewarded with the best Pieology pizza waiting for me from Kyle H (I was the only Pieology award recipient, thanks to great friends!)...but then I couldn't walk down the steps at work for four days after the race because my knees hurt like hell and I told myself I would never ever do another race again. read more

The Hapalua - Hawaii's Half Marathon - Races & Competitions Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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The Hapalua Half Marathon... Besides some much-needed R&R, an inviting trip to the North Shore's Banzai Pipeline, and some of the best shrimp I've ever had at the North Shore Shrimp Truck, running Hapalua's Half and knocking out one more state run in my chase to complete 50 is why we've come to Oahu. Thankfully starting early at 6am (the humidity had already begun to set in), the Hapalua welcomed over 9000 runners, laced-up and sun-screened, to Duke Kahanamoku's statue in beautiful Waikiki. Traditional Hawaiian blessings and starting line ceremonies proceeded what would amount to be a fast-paced course throughout downtown Honolulu before heading up and up and up Monsarrat Ave. toward, and then completely around, Diamond Head. It seems a bit odd to say this, but, although I love going to Hawaii--as scenic and as beautiful as it is--I felt that Hapalua's course left a bit to be desired. For me, running around Diamond Head and hopefully meandering along the cone was a huge draw. However, the course simply follows the street at the vocanoe's base, where regular traffic streams. Yet again, even though Hawaii is stunningly beautiful (moreso the North Shore than Waikiki, in my opinion), the run itself didn't offer any more than what you'd find on a drive or walk through the city; and if you're staying around Waikiki, you've already done that. How selfish am I, right? I loved Hapalua, but I still wanted more. read more

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Fate loves the fearless. I finished this race in 6,474 place and I'm THRILLED about it. Haha, this was probably the hardest thing I've ever done in my life because the last 4 miles are in direct sun and it is brutal. They reported that 9,000 were starting and 6,526 finished. Congratulations to everyone that finished, we definitely earned our race bling. It's no secret I've struggled with running since my brain surgery. However, I will not be defeated. I am unbreakable. I struggle with getting dehydrated constantly while running and staying cool. I am giving this race 4 stars because I felt like it needed more hydration stations. Some were out of gatorade. I wasted some time because my husband had to bring me water. By the time I reached mile 11, my feet were cramping so badly I couldn't stand so I had to take about 30 minute break. All in all, it was a great race. I would definitely do it again. The medal was so beautiful, it's the prettiest I've ever seen. Thank you Hapalua for always encouraging everyone of all levels to participate in this race. read more

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I have ran the Hapalua - Hawaii's half marathon for 2x now: 2012 & 2013. They call it Hawaii's premiere half marathon, even though there are other smaller half marathons on Oahu and the neighbor islands year round. Its nice to know that the people who brought you the annual Honolulu Marathon is also behind the reigns of the Hapalua Half marathon. According to the organizers, Hapalua means half in the Hawaiian language, so that's fitting for a half marathon. The field for this half marathon is about 3,000 strong and continues to grow each year. While I won't be running this one in 2014, due to finances and me trying to finish up my own quest to run 50 states marathons this year in 2014, I will definitely will try to run it every year thereafter, as something to do and to keep race ready all year round. The Hapalua half marathon course starts at the Duke Kahanamoku statue in the heart of Waikiki and heads westbound into downtown Honolulu for a few miles. Then a sharp u turn back towards Waikiki. We pass Waikiki, up to Kapiolani Park and March up along Monsarrat Avenue. We weave along Diamond Head Road along Kapiolani Community College, and finish up at the Honolulu Marathon finish line at Kapiolani Park. In 2013, there was a torrential rainstorm that literally came down minutes before the gun went off. It was wild. There were many hoots and hollers that morning from all the runners, especially when most of everything was closed on a Sunday morning. Let's just say everything was invigorating. The torrential downpour was a blessing. It was better than it being hotter than hell, that's for sure. The aid stations were about every 1.5 miles, so that was pretty good. There wasn't much of spectators along the route, but it kind of was expected. It wasn't your Chicago marathon or New York City kind of spectacle, but it is Hawaii's own and its a pretty decent course. While its resembles part of the Honolulu marathon course in some aspects, the Hapalua half marathon continues to strive for excellence and "The Chase" proves that. The Hapalua half marathon offers "The Chase" which offers Hawaii's elite marathoners to compete with international world class runners, by giving them a head start, and eventually chasing the international / Kenyan superstars. In the end, its great running to be had and great to be watching them record great times, while you run your own personal best or whatever you have for the day. The fanfare that's pumped for this race wasn't a whole lot. The expo is held at the Hawaii Convention Center in a small meeting room, not like the Honolulu marathon, where you get the entire ground floor. The medal I received was a small coin, which resembles the Hawaiian currency way back in the day before the United States forcibly took over in the late 1800's. While I can't say that I would wholeheartedly recommend this race, you are running in Hawaii and that's awesome in itself. The Hapalua Half marathon has a great organization and hopeful that it'll grow to the premiere event that I know it can become. Race day typically had been in mid March, but it moved to mid April in 2014. Not sure why it's the case, but April running is pretty good too, although it can get humid and warm around then. To be sure, it would behoove you to come out and race this one. Generally Recommended if you want to run your first half, although it is hilly in the 2nd half of the course. Weather can be a little iffy, but that's cool. Put on your running shoes and let's get started! Run more! Support local! B read more

This is my first Hapalua half marathon run. I've been attending the Honolulu Marathon but did not come across this run. There were more than 9k of people attending this run compared to the Honolulu Marathon, which was over 30k. Although this is just a half marathon, the route was out of the norm from all the other types of races. The run through downtown and waikiki was amazing, all filled with supporters clapping for us and it just makes you feel good. The weather this morning was amazing, their were some parts that were cloudy so you won't feel the heat of that sun. But when the sun hits, that heat makes you want to melt and forces you to run even slower. My Fiancée really loves to run, and I have her support even if she always beats me at all the runs we have been to. It's soo much fun, running with a big group makes it even more fun. Made it to the finish line at 3:06, I think i could do better. The Monsorat Street hill killed me. I had to walk/jog the last 3miles. For the people who want to do this, do it! You will have an epic time, physically and mentally. read more

The Hapalua - Hawaii's Half Marathon - Crossed that finish line..wooohoo - Races & Competitions Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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This was one of the most well-organized running events I've participated in in Hawaii. For a relatively small race (about 4500 participants) in comparison to the Marathon and GAR, I was surprised at how much of the course roads they were able to get permitted to close, which made the running paths graciously wide and for the majority of the race, I felt un-crowded and very comfortable! What a pleasant surprise! For the most part, the route was easy and flat. The most difficult part of this race was heading up Monsarrat at mile 9 (unfortunately this year with headwinds blowing you in the face). No worries though because right after you tackle this long gradual hill you get the luxury of a slight downhill to prepare your legs for the last little climb and steep decline back to Kapiolani Park. At the finish, you are given a medal, water, banana and of all things...a malasada. Healthy recovery food :P read more

The Hapalua - Hawaii's Half Marathon - Races & Competitions Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Hapalua... Thank you for all the support from everyone and it was great seeing some inspiring people before the race. Thank you for the good luck messages too. A little after the second mile, some of the fastest runners were on their way back already and I was like wth. At mile 4, I started to cry thinking I couldn't do this. By mile 8 I wanted to run across to the people on the other side who were almost done. And at mile 10 I wanted to give up because of the rain, wind, exhaustion, darn Monsarrat but I pushed my limits and didn't finish as strong as I'd like but I did what I could. This is my first half marathon. My goal of 3 hours was reasonable for 13.1 miles. I finished at 2:58:23. Would I do it again? Yes, I would. The scenery is beautiful to run and see. I want to live a healthy life and push myself to always to do better. I didn't think I could be a runner and people even put me down and told me to give up, it's not for me. But I persevered. I may not be the best but I did it and gave it my all. And now I'll get off my soapbox. ^^* read more

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This is one of my favorite Half Marathons in Hawaii. It's unique! It is also the most unique out of everyone that I have ever ran. What makes Hapalua a cool run is the chase. I've never participated in the chase, but I'm sure if I would've stayed in Hawaii I could've made the team. The chase puts Hawaii's elite runners against some of the worlds elite, and it's very cool to see the build up. Prior to the chase; these elite runners do a short run with the local Hawaii runners; giving them the chance to see that their normal, which is pretty cool : ) One more last thing that I like about Hapalua Half Marathon, is it's a different course; compared to the many other half's that are ran in Honolulu. This course runs in Honolulu; starting at Waikiki, and taking you through Chinatown to Diamond Head, and finish at Kapiolani Park. It's a super cool Half Marathon, with a super cool finishers medal. : ) Enjoy! read more

The Hapalua - Hawaii's Half Marathon - Races & Competitions Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This race is by far my favorite Hawai'i half marathon race! I ran this event 3xs now, and it has grown so much over the past couple years (participation and the organization itself). There are so many great features about this event that makes it special and unique. One of the features of this half marathon include The Hapalua Chase. In the Hapalua Chase, the best local runners from Hawaii get a head start on some of the best professionals runners in the world. The pros will chase down the local guys and girls to the finish line to claim the grand prize. It's just an exciting feature that the Hapalua included and it's fun cheering on Team Hawai'i when you see them running back. And of course you gotta cheer for the pros when they're inching in on Team Hawai'i lol. Another great feature to this race are the fundraising teams. Anyone can form a team, pick a cause and raise money for it. Every team member that contributes to the minimum donation will receive a discounted price to their Hapalua registration fee. It's just a great way to give back to the community while promoting health and an active lifestyle. After you register, the organization will send out an email notifying you on the expo info. The expo is usually at the Convention Center and as the event gets more popular every year, the bigger the room they're in. It's a smooth transition from picking up your packet and number, along with a great participation of other venders that attend the expo. Being apart of this race, you also get a dri-fit race shirt and reusable bag! The race course is great! Start line is in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue on Kalakaua. You run along the Ala Moana Blvd and head into downtown area where you loop around and head back into Waikiki, up Monsarrat, around Diamond Head and finish at Kapiolani Park. Everything from the course markers, to the volunteers at the water aid stations, and to the police officers directing traffic were so well-organized. At the finish line, you receive your medal and then enter into finishers' town where you can get your shave ice, malasadas, banana, and refreshments, along with other tents that offer free massages and some other free stuff. If you're looking for a half marathon to run, then look no more. The Hawaii Hapalua race is a great event to be apart of :) read more

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I get that they had a tough decision to make by cancelling the 2020 race because of covid-19. They had already incurred costs, such as tshirts, medals, and a fraction of labor. However, they showed ZERO compassion for these extenuating circumstances challenging our entire world. Certainly, they could have offered back a fraction of the entry fees for those unable to reschedule and come back for the 2021 race. I'm sure there are others like me, but I am not in a position to simply drop what I am doing to fly to Hawaii when it's convenient for them to reschedule the race. The worst part is their total lack of communication. I emailed multiple times, sent messages through Facebook, and NEVER received a single response. However, on Facebook, I did have the opportunity to see their short and VERY RUDE response to a couple of other people, but overall, ignoring the many requests they had received. What a disappointment! I will have to find another Hawaii race to complete, because I will not be participating in any races organized by this group. read more

Out of all the half and full marathons I've done, the most exciting and unforgettable by far was the 2013 Hapalua. Torrential rain drenched runners from the 6:00am start. As we waded through the water, people around me joked about how this was the swimming portion of a triathlon. Part of the Hapalua is a unique event called The Chase. Team Hawaii, comprised of Hawaii's best runners, are given a head start on the Chasers, who aim to catch up and pass them. The 2013 Chasers were elite Kenyan runners Jimmy Muindi, Nicholas Manza, and marathon world record holder (2:03:38) Patrick Makau. The first person to cross the finish line wins. I was excited and starstruck to be running the same course as these elite runners, and the course's switchbacks conveniently allowed us to observe the exciting race. The course itself consisted entirely of paved streets, with the first nine miles being mostly flat. Runners travel from Waikiki to Downtown Honolulu and back along the same route. Many of Honolulu's most iconic landmarks are along this route including the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Beach, Ala Moana Shopping Center, Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, and Kapiolani Park. Miles 10 and 11 are the hardest in the entire race as runners climb the challenging incline of Diamond Head, Oahu's famous extinct volcano. Mile 12 finally takes runners downhill along what is probably the most scenic view of the entire race. The ocean and beautiful sunrise from the heights of Diamond Head made the uphill trek seem much more worth it. From packet pick-up, to the shuttle buses, to the aid stations, and finish line festival, everything about the Hapalua was well-organized. Along with the finisher's medal, there was an abundance of food at the finish line including shaved ice, fruits, energy bars, cookies, and malasadas. There aren't many half marathons in Hawaii, so whether you're a local or tourist, don't miss out on this flat and scenic race! read more

Hawaii's Half Marathon, from the people who bring you the Honolulu Marathon! This very well organized event and beautiful course is a must do for any runner. There is no time limit so you can run fast or slow! The course starts in beautiful Waikiki in complete darkness at 6:00 am. You run to China Town, turn around, and then back to Waikiki before heading around breathtaking Diamond Head and ending at Kapiolani Park. The course itself was nice. Mostly flat, with one tough hill around mile 9 but after the beast known as Monsarrat, it was all downhill! The course was wide and I didn't have to weave in and out of people like other races on Oahu so I was thankful for that. Malasadas, other yummy goodies, and a medal modeled after a Hawaiian coin were handed out at the finish line. I am now making this a yearly ritual because I loved it so much. Thank you to everybody who helped put this race together and all the volunteers that helped out. I can't wait to be a part of this race year after year! read more

Since I have done and enjoyed the Honolulu Marathon in the past, I decided that for my very first half marathon event there would be none better than the Hapalua. Organized by the same people who bring the Honolulu Marathon each December, the Hapalua shares a lot of the same characteristics as its big brother. Packet pickup location, portions of the course and the finish line will feel very similar to those who have done the Honolulu Marathon. Logistically, the event was very well organized. Everything from registration, packet pickup, parking, shuttle service before and after the race, and aid stations all felt very efficient. Almost all the information you need to know is laid out for you on the well organized and easy to read website. The only thing I had to do a little digging for was if and how I could have someone else pick up my packet since I wouldn't be flying into Honolulu until after the last pickup time. I think it was on their Facebook page where I read that you can have someone else pick up your packet as long as that person has a copy of your drivers license and confirmation. That information should be located more appropriately on the race website. This year, 2015, there were roughly 6000 participants, more than any of the previous three years. However, not nearly as much as the twenty-something thousand for the Honolulu Marathon. Because of that the course seemed less congested after the first mile or two, which I greatly appreciated. Aid stations were plentiful. In my opinion there were more than needed but, better more than less. I forced myself to utilize each one even if I felt I didn't need it and there was always enough water and Gatorade for everyone. Naturally, there was some congestion going through but, the tables were spread out quite a bit to minimize this. One of the first things I noticed was that the Gatorade was not watered down at all, which was a pleasant surprise since that was one of my biggest gripes when I did the Honolulu Marathon in 2013. If my memory serves me right, one of the stations also had gels. I think it was around mile 8, though I could be wrong. Side note, I never used gels before so when I took it during the race I immediately felt nauseous. So I recommend incorporating it in your training to get you body used to it or just skip it all together. I would say the course was not difficult but not easy. Again, this was my first half marathon so I do not have anything to compare it to so that's just my opinion. The first 8 miles were pretty flat and easy. But at around mile nine you encounter a beast one mile incline that is Monsarrat. Probably the toughest part of the race, at least for me. After that, though, it's pretty much all downhill except for one more, much smaller, incline. I really liked the last half mile because it is a flat, wide, straight shot to the finish, where spectators line both sides and cheer you on. As you approach the finish line an announcer calls out your name on a loud speaker. It makes you feel like a superstar, if only for an instant. That was a nice little touch to the ending of a 13.1 mile trek. read more

I should start by saying that I am NOT a morning person, so getting up early voluntarily on a weekend morning is not something that I do without a pretty good reason. It all started last spring when I thought that shaking up my routine and getting out of the gym and into the fresh air to train for a long race might get me out of my rut and help me shed a few pounds. It worked! Ten weeks of rising early every weekend paid off and by the time the 2017 Hapalua rolled around, I had lost 17 pounds. This year, I thought I might forego the Hapalua in favor of another half marathon, but enough people that I knew signed up and before you know it, there I was at zero dark thirty with strangers stretching in the KCC parking lot while eating bananas and waiting for a shuttle to the starting line. As with many races, signing up early gets you a discount, as does being a student or a military member. Signups are available online or at the expo, which is held at the convention center, where parking will set you back $10. I recommend carpooling, if you can. Every participant must be present (unlike some races, which allow you to pick up packets for friends) for the packet pickup. Check in and packet/t-shirt pickup are organized and volunteers are friendly. The official race shirts were actually pretty nice this year. (If any of the organizers are reading this, please consider using the same style and color combo again!) There were a few vendors selling fancy socks that will prevent blisters, kinesiology tape to support your bum ankle or knee (highly recommend learning how to use this type of tape, and various snacks to give you extra energy during the race. There was also a selfie station to take pictures next to the race logo. I carpooled to the shuttle parking lot, which was getting very full by 5 am. Do not wait until the last minute, or you may not find parking. Finding and boarding the buses was easy. The weak link may have been the actual starting area. I'm not sure what they need but the lights and music were a little too dim and it all created a dream like haze which was not as energizing as I would like. Plus, whoever was lighting up the pakalolo, you SUCK. Some of us cannot get near the stuff because of our jobs and you really stank up the place with it. I can't really blame the race organizers for that, though. The course takes you past some iconic scenery, from Waikiki beach, past the Iolani palace, part of Chinatown and around Diamond Head, where some of us (okay, maybe only me) gazed wistfully at some stunning homes. What the race makes up for in quantity of spectators, it makes up for in quality, from the lady on her mobility scooter, cheering for us like an aunty at a child's soccer match to the super awesome couple who set up a misting station in their front yard. The pain relieving spray stations were welcome, as well. The post race snacks were well-organized and plentiful. Shave ice, and malasadas and moon pies, oh my! Most of all, this is dedicated to the lovely folks at Lanikai juice. You are true humanitarians dispensing your bottles of pineapple juice. Still not convinced? There is no course time limit, so you have all the time you need to complete the race. See you at the finish line! I'll save you a malasada! read more

This year, I decided to participate in my very first half marathon..... and I'm so glad I did!!! I signed up for the Hapalua in January, so entry cost was ~$125. A bit pricey, but if you planned ahead and signed up early, it's about $30 for entry fees (early entries also get an in-training shirt). With any sign up includes entry to the race, an official Hapalua shirt, and medal (once you complete). The Hapalua is a 13.1 mile course that starts from the Duke Kahanamoku statue in Waikiki, then travels through Waikiki and Ward, and then snakes around downtown to make your return to Waikiki, and last you face the daunting Monsarrat Ave. hill. A few days before the race, The Hapalua holds a packet pickup event (this year's was at The Convention Center). Surprisingly, the packet pickup event was REALLY organized and the process was quick. Remember to bring your credit card though... there's lots of Hapalua memorabilia for purchase at this event. The actual race begins at 6AM, and consists of water/Gatorade stations about every 2 miles. When you finish your journey, you're awarded your Hapalua medal, malasadas, shave ice, fruits, and entertainment at Kapiolani Park. Loved this gathering, as my mother was super supportive and met me at the finish line.. we were able to enjoy all the festivities at Kapiolani Park. This year's Hapalua medals were extra fancy; the medals were spinning 3D circles that once laid flat, showed a woman on one side and a man on the other. Once I got home, I took a closer look at my medal, and realized that the center circle was installed reverse, so that no matter how I rearrange the circles the images would never match. Disappointed, I reached out to the organizers of The Hapalua... and amazingly! I received a response within an hour! The Hapalua rep expressed his apology and agreed to mail me a corrected medal. Absolutely amazed by the organization and all the workers/volunteers of The Hapalua... definitely signing up again next year! TIPS: - early registration pays off - race begins at 6AM, so train accordingly - eat a light breakfast prior and stay hydrated - getting dropped off/taking a cab/bus to the race is ideal - contact Hapalua staff of any concerns (very responsive) - go out and just have fun! read more

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This is one of my favorite half marathon races. The race starts off at the famous Duke Ka'ahumanu statue on Kalakaua Ave in Waikiki, Honolulu. Thousands of people from across the world gather to the starting line at 6 AM. If you arrive early, you can watch Team Hawaii start before the general public. These guys are fast! Their goal is to finish and cross the finish line before "Team World", other sponsored athletes that do not currently reside in Hawaii. Team Hawaii gets a head start based on their previous records for finishing a 21k. I can't say that Team Hawaii actually represents athletes from Hawaii as each year some of these guys seem to just have moved here a few months ago, however, it is still fun to watch. The route starts in Waikiki on Kalakaua Ave and goes on to Ala Moana Blvd along Ala Moana Shopping Center. As you head down towards Aloha Towers, you turn right on Smith Street. After running down King Street in Downtown, Honolulu for a mile, you make a right turn on Punchbowl and left back onto Ala Moana Blvd. Here, you have reached about mile 4. Another 4 miles down to where you started before turning left at the end of Waikiki (before Kapiolani Park) to climb the 1 mile "monster hill" (aka Monserrat hill). Here is where people start walking (and some roll off the hill, I have witnessed ambulances coming to rescue some), but keep that energy up. At the top of this hill, you get to rest for a few minutes before approaching another hill on Diamond Head Road. A shorter and less steep hill, but none the less not much easier. This is your last 3 miles. Keep going strong. You are almost there. As you make it down the last 3/4 mile around Kapiolani Park, you start seeing a large crowd cheering you on. After you cross the finish line, you are given a finisher medal. Keep walking and there are treats ahead: water, shave ice and my personal favorite, malasadas (Hawaiian donuts)!! I usually hang out a little and then make my way back home, sit in front of the TV, netflix the rest of the day and just chillax. 21k and 30,000 steps later, I think I might have earned it. Sincerely, 3x hapalua finisher and 18x half marathon finisher! read more

I tried this run for the first time on it's third year on 04/13/2014. Ever since I got into running and doing the Honolulu Marathon, I figured I try out the Hapalua Half Marathon. I remember registering during an early bird special or something that was like 50 bucks. I said to myself man this better bee worth at least more than half of the fun that the Marathon provides that boy, in my opinion, it delivered. So this is organized by the same organizers as the Honolulu Marathon. Although it's not as big (yet) as the Honolulu Marathon since it is really a relatively new race still breaching out, it's still a great race and event. Prior to the race and event, they send you out an "In-Training" t-shirt which is pretty cool if you sign early enough. I was really using the shirt while training as well as on the day of the race! They don't really have an Expo like they do for the Marathon but they still have vendors out and everything for when you do packet pick ups. I feel that the course really does provide and mimic half of the Honolulu Marathon. The race starts at 6AM. It is exactly half of a marathon which is 13.1 miles of fun. They do have courtesy shuttles to and from the event from Kapiolani Community College to Waikiki. The starting line is at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue on Kalakaua Ave. It's pretty much a straight away down through Ala Moana Blvd. then wraps around downtown going back to Waikiki then the last thing is running around Diamond Head which is the most hardest and challenging part about the race. This year (2014) it was rainy on and off but overall it was ok running weather. Just like the marathon, they serve water and gatorade for your hydration needs. I didn't see too many people with gimmicks or costumes on so it was a pretty normal running crows. I saw kids running this race. You can walk or run! When you finish, I feel that there are more incentives that they give here than they do at the Marathon. They hand out yummy bagels, malasadas, bananas, shave ice, moon shine cookies, etc. Just like the marathon, they have booths and vendors and entertainment to celebrate the festivities of the Hapalua. I would say the race and event is worth it. I look forward to doing this race more as well as hoping that it does get bigger. read more

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It was my first half marathon today! Beautiful location! Only two complaints would be the huge uphill struggle at the very end (really?! At the END?!) and the first station was out of Gatorade for the middling people. Other than that, good spacing of hydration and first aid, lots of fun! Great to see the community come out to cheer everyone on! read more

Great race on a beautiful course through Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki and around Diamondhead with breath-taking scenery (it's on the route of the full Honolulu Marathon)- must do if you a runner and like the half marathon distance. Finished the last 2 and just signed up for 2015- see you on the race course =) read more

Did this race for the first time after doing the Honolulu Marathon the past few years. It was a nice race. They give two shirts--an in-training one and a Hapalua Half Marathon one that many people wore to the race. They were nice shirts too! There are some nice sights and a number of bathrooms a long the way. They also had so much food, like shave ice, moon pies, bananas, and malasadas after the race. The only negative was that one station ran out of water for us not-so-fast folk and it was around like mile 10 so many people were dehydrated at that point. Overall it was a really nice race! read more