FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kauai Marathon Again Offers $15,000 Speed Challenge
Wardian to defend title at third edition - set for Sunday, September 4,
2011; event adds Marathon "ReLei"; running ambassadors Dean Karnazes, Bart
Yasso again to host the festivities in Hawaii
For the second year, the $15,000 Speed Challenge will be offered at the
Kauai Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, September 4, 2011 in Poipu, Kauai.
Male and female runners who complete the marathon in under 2 hours, 30
minutes for men and 2:45:00 for women will split the prize money. Last
year's winner Michael Wardian missed the Speed Challenge bonus by 52
seconds and will return this year to defend his title, as well as run for
the $15,000. Other notable runners for the 2011 event expected include the
inaugural Kauai Marathon winner JT Service, 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials
qualifier Tyler McCandless and two Kenyan athletes David Tuwei and James
Boitt.
Named the race of the month by Runner's World magazine in 2010, the Kauai
Marathon is known for its challenging course, spectacular scenery and
amazing Kauai hospitality plus renowned hosts ultra superstar Dean Karnazes
and running ambassador Bart Yasso. Both will be available at the event's
Expo at the Sheraton Kauai Resort, as well as at the Fun Run and Expert
Panel Discussion on Saturday, September 3.
Yasso states, "The most rewarding part of The Kauai Marathon is that when
you finish, you are still on the beautiful Garden Isle."
Although there is talk about the challenges of the hills, humidity and
heat, 2010 race champion Wardian says, "Some sections of the course that I
am looking forward to are the torch light start, running through the tunnel
of trees and up the climbs in the later half of the race so that I can
enjoy the return to the start with breathtaking views of the ocean and
mountains along the way."
The full, half and new relay marathon USATF / AIMS certified courses begin
in Poipu and run the first 11 miles together. The courses travel up through
the 100-year-old Tree Tunnel, which offers spectacular views of Kauai's
breathtaking mountains. After runners make their way down Highway 50 and
Omao Road, the half-marathon course enters Kukui'ula Resort where
spectacular ocean views highlight the last few miles. The full marathon
heads out to the neighborhoods of Lawai and Kalaheo before heading down a
gradual decent back into Poipu.
Upon completion of the event, all finishers are lei greeted with a
commemorative medallion. From 8:00am to 1:30pm, the Kauai Marathon and
Sheraton Kauai Resort host the party and awards ceremony. Live local
entertainment, ice-cold beer and plenty of food are provided for the
runners. This year's after party is at Kalapaki Joe's in Poipu, which will
include live music and amazing drink specials.
Race organizers anticipate the third edition to exceed expectations due to
the to-date number of entrants, as well as the incredible support from
national and local corporate sponsorships. Ultima will be providing the
electrolyte replenishment drinks at all aid stations, while Kauai companies
Holo Holo Boat Charters, Kauai Coffee and the County of Kauai have
generously partnered with the event.
To register for this world class event or to learn more, visit
www.thekauaimarathon.com. On-line registration closes on August 30, 2011 at
11:59 Pacific Standard Time.
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