By Staff Reports
(KAILUA) – The Kailua NiteRun is a community-oriented fun run that might just be one of the most unique events in Hawaii. This family-friendly 5K run/walk starts just after sunset on October 11th, and skirts the border of the Kawai Nui Marsh wetlands. The course will be lit by LED lights, glowsticks, and headlamps – come dressed in your best costume for a chance to win awards and prizes!
Kawai Nui is Hawaii’s largest wetland, and is a protected site under the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar Convention recognizes the fundamental ecological functions of wetlands and their economic, cultural, scientific, and recreational value. The Kailua NiteRun will help educate participants about the importance of the Kawai Nui Marsh, its ecosystem, and the unique plants and wildlife. Runners and walkers will be able to learn about the marshlands while enjoying the fellowship of other participants as they run along the levee with hundreds of their new “friends”! All proceeds from the Kailua NiteRun benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Windward.
After the race, there will be a post-race celebration in conjunction with the Cool Kailua Nights block party and health awareness fair. This event will include live entertainment, food and beverages from local vendors, a keiki area, games, prizes, and more! Cool Kailua Nights draws an estimated 10,000 attendees annually, and last year raised more than $40,000 for beneficiaries including Castle Medical Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Windward.
Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Windward provides a safe place for youth ages 7 to 17 to grow and learn, ongoing relationships with caring adults, and life enhancing programs. They are open every day after school until 6:00pm and all day during school breaks. Membership is $25.00 annually. For more information, visit http://www.bgch.com.
Windward Clubhouse Director Maureen Purington says, “The NiteRun through Kawai Nui Marsh is an amazing addition to the Cool Kailua Nights Block Party and Health Awareness Fair. Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Windward is committed to providing engaging and enriching activities for our members, their families, and the community at large. This family-friendly run/walk is sure to provide lasting memories and lots of fun for all! Many thanks to John Henderson and his team at NiteRun for making this event happen, and for choosing to donate proceeds to our Clubhouse.”
Course information and registration can be found online at www.niterun.com.
