International Running Teams Invited To Waikiki For Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN Relay Race, March 8
HONOLULU, Dec. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN relay race is welcoming running enthusiasts worldwide to join in Waikiki and compete on a fun, ocean-view 5-kilometer course highlighted by the scenic beauty of Diamond Head Crater and Kapiolani Park on March 8, 2014.
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A tradition in Japan for more than 90 years that is gaining international popularity, ekiden is a long-distance relay race in which teams of runners take turns running the course. For the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, each team will run a total of 25 kilometers (15.5 miles).
The second annual Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN will feature teams of five runners, ages 12 and older. The USA Track & Field certified 5K course begins and ends on the ocean side of Kapiolani Park fronting Waikiki Beach, continues alongside Diamond Head and passes the historic lighthouse, before returning to the relay hand-off and finish line.
The course offers runners the ideal challenge of racing over Diamond Head amidst scenic landscapes while enjoying spectacular views of the ocean.
Both teams and individuals are invited to participate. Individual participants will be placed on "Friendship Teams" with runners from Hawaii, Japan, and other countries.
The top three teams to finish will be recognized at the post-race awards ceremony, with awards also presented for the top seniors, women, juniors, and best performance. Each race participant will receive a souvenir Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN t-shirt, medal, complimentary drink from Lanikai Juice and other amenities.
Runners, joined by family members and friends, will enjoy the post-race festivities at the new WaikiKitchen ~Taste of Local~ Food Festival. This celebration of Hawaii's cuisine will feature a delicious variety of entrees and treats from gourmet restaurants, "plate lunch" vendors and local-style food trucks. Another highlight is a special live performance by the popular Japanese band Skimaswitch, which is an official supporter of the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN.
A discounted early entry fee of $150 per team for the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN is available for those who register by Friday, December 27. Student teams registering by that date will pay $100 per team. The regular entry fee is $250 per team, or $50 per individual participant, with a deadline of February 28, 2014.
Teams entering the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN can register online at Active.com. For more information, visit HonoluluEkiden.com.
The Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN takes place during the 20th Annual Honolulu Festival, March 7-9, 2014 (www.HonoluluFestival.com). Under the theme Jubilation, One Heart, One Pacific, One World, the Honolulu Festival features dynamic and fascinating cultural dance performances, music, exhibits and crafts for free, along with a Grand Parade through Waikiki and Nagaoka Fireworks Show over Waikiki Beach.
The Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN is sponsored by JTB Corp. and Hyatt Regency, and also supported by the Honolulu Festival Foundation.
SOURCE Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN
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