Kona Marathon

On a scale of 1-30, I give this Marathon a 28

1-Poor
2-Average
3-Good

1) Location

Kona, Hawaii-Begins and finishes at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach

Score: 3

2) Start

The start is located .2 Miles from the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort on Alii Drive...

Score: 3

3) Route

The Kona Marathon & Family Fun Runs marathon’s course takes place along the coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The Marathon begins on Alii Drive through Kailua-Kona town and up to the intersection of Alii Drive and Kuakini Hwy. The runners then turns left on Kuakini Hwy out to 'The Old Airport'. (A real airport made into a park after Keahole Airport was built.) Runners then continue right up 'K-Mart Road' and then left on to Queen Kaahumanu Highway. Runners go 2 miles down the 'Natural Energy Lab Road', completing 13.0 miles into the race. Then the runners turn around for a 13.2 mile run to the finish line at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. BEAUTIFUL SCENERY.

Score: 3

4) Mile Markers

The mile markers were very visible and accurate.

Score: 3

5) Water Stops

The water stops were plenty, but the water was not spring or purified. The smell was enough to make my stomach turn. I did not drink the water.

Score: 1

6) Finish Line

The reception and entertainment at the finish line was great. When I crossed the finish line my name and time were announced. The medal was placed around my neck. The timing chip was removed by a volunteer. I did not receive a blanket. Since I was soaked from the down pour, I needed one. But they were not available since they had anticipated extremely hot weather that day.
Score: 3

7) Volunteers

There were plenty of volunteers. They were ready for us with food, water and electrolytes. All the stations were well stocked.

Score: 3

8) Spectators

GREAT CROWD! Some spectators were giving the runners bottled water and Gatorade.
Score: 3

9) Refreshments

There was plenty of water, food and electrolytes for the participants. I went with the team Train to End Stroke, and they also had plenty of refreshments for us. Nourishment was abundant.
Score: 3

10) Medal

The medal is an oval. Inside the oval there is a map of the Big Island, Blue Waves and a runner touching a red star.

Score: 3

**When I participated, I had the flu and a fever. I was dehydrated, and was not
able to perform my best, and my pace suffered.

I’m considering participating in this event again, but I’ll make sure I’m healthy
and have my own water. Hopefully I can set a new personal record.