FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kona Marathon Sees Growth In 2013
Kailua-Kona, HI- The 20th Anniversary for the Kona Marathon and Family Runs
was held on Sunday, June 23, 2013. The event saw major changes for its 20th
Anniversary, with a modified race course and new headquarter hotel, the
Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay. Director, Sharron Faff stated,
"Our team worked hard to ensure a seamless transition to the Sheraton this
year and to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. As with any major change, we
found a few kinks that will be workedout for future events. However, from
the feedback we received, we know we succeeded overall and provided a great
experience for our participants."
2013 saw a 10% growth of registered participants for the Marathon, Half
Marathon, 10K and 5K. Of those participants 37% were from the State of
Hawaii, 50% from 45 mainland states and 13% were international. Across the
participant field, 57% were female and 43% male with the oldest participant
age 86. A total of 11.6* million dollars was infused into the local and
state economies as a direct result of this year's event.
Four national charity groups also participated with the Kona Marathon this
year bringing participants from around the country to raise money in
support of each of their missions. Groups represented were, Crohns and
Colitis, Team Challenge, Team to End Aids - Houston chapter, Susan G. Komen
Marathon for the Cure and American Stroke Association. As a result of the
Kona Marathon charity program these organizations raised over $502,000.
In addition, Saturday's Health & Fitness Fair hosted a record number of
vendors and organizations representing an extensive variety of products and
services, "The Fair this year saw a 120% growth from previous years with 45
vendors. There was something for everyone, including our event - related
educational speaker series by a panel of distinguished athletes and
authors." Faff stated.
With this successful year now past, the Kona Marathon team is already hard
at work planning for next year's event to be held on June 22, 2014. "Our
team has listened to suggestions and we will be taking them into
consideration as we move forward on our continuing goal to have the Kona
Marathon and Family Runs a safe and fun event week to be enjoyed by all."
Faff said.
Registration for all 2014 Kona Marathon events is now open and details can
be found at konamarathon.com.
*Based on Hawaii Tourism Authority 2013 visitor financial impact
caculations.
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