By Miguel Gonzalez
Editor
All Photos By Melanie Francisca
Video By Oscar Ivan Gonzalez
(Oahu)–In a race full of tremendous competition, courage and amazing athletic ability the second edition of the Warrior Dash took place this past Saturday at Dillingham Ranch in Oahu.
According to organizers, the event registered an attendance of over 8,000 runners who came here for a challenge unlike anything they had seen before.
Warrior Dash is a fierce 5K running event that challenges and welcomes all athletic abilities. The race allowed participants to enter the Battleground and conquer 12 difficult obstacles that varied from barb wire to mud to wall climbs and even fire pits over more than three miles of extreme terrain. Once they reach the finish line, participants earn their Warrior title.
Hawaiiahe.com was invited to run and experience the event and it did not disappoint with an amazing experience that involved lots of sweat, a bit of blood and many smiles.
This reporter was able to complete the race in under 26 minutes in what was a definite challenge with a picturesque background full of army-type obstacles.
The race attracted runners of all qualities and sizes. Many of them wore colorful outfits and masks, which made the event even more of an adventure to experience.
In this year’s Honolulu edition, the Warrior Dash brought many new additions to the event. The race was well coordinated to offer participants not only a challenge, but also a great time after the race with live bands and food vendors to make the atmosphere fun filled. “This event is so unique and so much fun. We did it last year and we have to say that this year was even better,” said Tom Smith, a local who enjoys running obstacle-based races.
Race Director Katherine Keenan, said the second edition of the Warrior Dash in Honolulu was a complete success thanks to
“People love this race so much we had to comeback. We have better obstacles and a lot more fun events for participants,” said Keenan of the 8,000 participants. “Waririor Dash is the world’s largest running series and we are already planning for next year’s race and hopefully one day also extend the competition on other islands in the state,” she added.
Warriors not only tackle obstacles along the course; they run to make a difference. Warrior Dash has been working on a continued partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in 2013. The St. Jude Warriors program encourages Warrior Dash racers to fundraise for St. Jude. In 2012, Warrior Dash participants raised more than $4.4 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Overall, Warrior Dash delivers on its promise of a challenge unlike any other race and fun after the event. The attendance of over 8,000 runners to this event confirms the popularity in Oahu and it would not be surprising to see it continue to grow in 2014.
To see footage, race results and learn more about Warrior Dash visit www.WarriorDash.com.