Runners from Hawaii and all over the world started the race in Waikiki as the sun rose at 6:00 a.m., passing downtown Honolulu and the Diamond Head crater, and eventually finishing in Kapiolani Park.
The Hapalua, organized by the Honolulu Marathon Association, does not have a time limit and is friendly to both walkers and runners. The last finisher came in at 6h35min30sec.
The Chase
A unique feature of The Hapalua is the Chase. This Hapalua’s signature element is designed by race founder Jim Barahal who was one of the island’s top runners when he moved to Hawaii from his native Michigan in the late 1970s.
This year, 22 best local runners in Hawaii were given a head start, from 6 minutes up to 22 minutes, on some of the best professional runners in the world. The elites would chase down Team Hawaii to the finish line.
The race came down to Philip Tarbei and first time half marathoner Ryan Tsang, 20, a sophomore at the University of Hawaii Manoa. Philip Tarbei of Kenya crossed the line first in 63:27 and claimed the $5,000 prize.
Ryan Tsang finished second with an adjusted time of 64:05, based on his 12-minute head start and received $2,500 prize. Kenya’s Abraham Kipyatich took the third place with 65:29 and received $1,000.
Post-Race Entertainment
After completing the half-marathon, finishers received medals and got to enjoy the entertainment and well-earned malasadas at the Finish Line.
The Hapalua has quickly become a favourite race in Hawaii, attracting a large number of domestic as well as international participants.
Registration for next year’s 7th annual Hapalua opens in fall. In the meantime, you can opt to pre-register now to get the best entry rates emailed to you.
