[SPORTS] The island’s most dedicated runners will join worldwide contestants and compete in the 35th annual Maui Marathon this Sunday, September 18th. Although it’s a little late to start your training for that, there’s also a 5K Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, open for last-minute sign-ups until the day before. Whereas the full-scale marathon goes from Kahului to Kaanapali—which is why its not labeled “fun”—the 5K heads from Ka’anapali towards Lahaina, then boomerangs back up north after less than two miles. Now doesn’t that sound a bit more feasible than traversing the island? I’ve run quite a few road races in my time, and am very familiar with the public outcry, “Why would you want to put yourself through that?” Only joggers and athletes understand the process whereby running releases endorphins, which have a euphoric effect that justifies such physical effort. A 5K is only a microcosm of a marathon, and yet 5K competitors are still rewarded with an after-party and awards ceremony! Plus, being in a race is fun in itself. Although you’re just one in a big stampede of runners, you’re united with all kinds of people with the same goal in mind. It’s pretty cool the way kids, young adults, pregnant ladies and even the elderly will come out of the woodwork, lace up their running shoes and hit the road. Running a half-marathon last summer taught me never to underestimate someone who doesn’t fit the profile of a runner, after being passed by a chubby teenager and a 70-year-old man in full spandex. But I took it in stride and had a great time, then got a bunch of free food and a massage after crossing the finish line! [MOLLY RETTIG]
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