Big Island International Marathon - Race Reviews

Course was hilly..particularly for the first part. Last 6 miles or so very flat. Incredibly scenic. I loved the course. Everything about this marathon is very Hawaiian. Relaxed, not overly organized but completely sufficient. Everyone there to have a good time. Some fairly fast runners in the front but most just cruising and having fun. If you are even thinking about running this one, you should!

I ran this race while visiting a friend in Hilo and it was a pleasant surprise. The first 14 miles were hilly, but the final 12 were almost completely flat. This is a race to negative split. My watch registered a totally of 1000 ft of elevation, but the course map does not include this information. The marathon was on the smaller side (<100 runners), but there were aid stations every 2 miles. The marathon course overlapped with the half marathon course at times, so you weren't running alone for the entire time. The volunteers were incredibly friendly and although there were few spectators, they were incredibly enthusiastic. There wasn't much food at the end of the race, but I would use that as an excuse to eat at some of the local restaurants nearby. The course takes you by waterfalls and over bridges with spectacular views, but also by the airport at times. Overall, beautiful course and I would suggest driving it beforehand so you don't need to stop and take pictures while running, even though many people did.

I enjoyed running my 50th marathon state in Hawaii. The first 14 miles were exceptional in more ways than one could imagine. The ocean views and plant life along the route were wonderful. The surfers were having a great day. The hills were a surprise. The second half of the marathon course was a flat out and back route; passing by some beautiful ocean front parks, colorful water views, and great plant life. It did heat up for those of us running slower than 4 hour marathon times. My recommendation would be to update the marathon route map, to have a profile plot of the elevation of the course. I would have trained on hills, if I had known about the hills on this course.

This was my 41st marathon and I will say, definitely the hilliest I have run - not sure I was ready for that!! The first 16 miles of the race is entirely up and down hill although the views are stunning. The last 10 miles was a welcome flat way to finish although not nearly as scenic. It was a small race but I thought it was well organized except some of the people giving directions were getting bored and it would have been easy to get lost. This is coming from someone that finished in the top 10% so I can only imagine how people slower than I felt.

This was my 40th marathon and 36th state and I'm pretty sure I'll never run as beautiful a course as this. Yes, it rained in Hilo again this year for much of the morning. The first half of the race has a lot of hills, so be ready. I'd read a lot of comments about the organization but I have no criticisms. This is a smaller race and I don't expect a lot of swag. I thought there were plenty of stations on the course, though I only saw gels at one or two, but since I carry my own, I wasn't looking either. Congrats to the race director for putting on a fine race.

It is over a month after the race and no photos have been posted, which is really disappointing considering the race info said they're included and this was my first marathon. Really not happy about that. The course is very beautiful, but plagued by organization issues as well. Apparently they don't want to pay to have a lane of traffic shut down, so you end up running on an uneven-camber shoulder, one side lower than the other, for most of the course, which is really hard on your joints and alignment. They were still setting up the start/finish line as we started the race, which was weird. Also, they took the mile markers down well before the last finishers were done, so it was really tough to calculate pacing to make it in under the cut off if you're cutting it close. I felt like that was really unacceptable. The volunteers were fantastic, and there was good food at the finish line. It isn't crowded, which is nice, and the finisher medal and t-shirt were good quality. The first half of the course is incredibly beautiful, with lots of waterfalls and shade. The second half isn't as pretty but it's flat, which was a blessing by that point! Would I do it again? Between the tilted roads and no photos, given the cost, probably not.

This course was absolutely beautiful and a great way to see some of the natural beauty in Hilo. The last 8-10 miles of the course could use some help. It was not as scenic, but the best thing they could have done was put the fluid stations closer together. Most courses will put them about 1 mile apart towards the end and this course could really use it since it gets warmer as the race goes on. They claimed to have photos but did not see them after two weeks.

What can I say? We flew from Bangor Maine to Hawaii in the winter of 2015. Or should I say 2015-the most snow winter on the books. How can I not say great things about Hawaii. Weather was perfect. Water-great. Fans-great for a small race. Best add on was the Luau the night before. We were even lucky enough to be sung to by a participant. (Has run this race 17 times.)

Even under the trying conditions of wind and rain it would be difficult to find a course that can rival this one in spectacular scenery. The new version of the race is more challenging than previously, with mostly rolling hills for the first 15 miles which leave you staggered for the remaining 11. The wisest course of action is to enjoy the scenery for the first half and save your energy for the latter part. Wonderful race organizers who adapted as best they could to the conditions.

Beautiful Course, but the price of the race and only water and Gatorade? Then at the end of the race NO food??? Did anyone take pictures?

Course- The beautiful parts of the course were better then I expected. I've been to Hawaii 5-6 times and prefer the quiet mountains and coasts to the more popular/crowded areas. This course was beautiful beyond what I thought it would be until mile 10 or so. Running around an airport for 6-8 miles of the 2nd half was NOT beautiful. I found only one thing lacking and don't know why - a photographer. With this being an anniversary/big money trip you would think a higher number of folks then average would want pictures. Alas, we celebrated our 20 anniversary and my wife's birthday with no pictures of the race for memories. Food: I finished just after 5 hours so when I read the description of soda and beer I felt like I had attended a different race... Every race director has their own preference on how to handle this-perhaps there could be a more consistent experience for more of the runners. If I was here again I would run the half because the scenery was to die for.

Wayne 'Big Dog' and his team of wonderful volunteers put on a real nice down home small town marathon. Very scenic beautiful surroundings layered in waterfalls and rolling ocean views for the first 10 miles. One of the coolest marathons in Hawaii since it gets 5x the annual rainfall of what we get in Dallas, Texas. Great atmosphere and personal attention really set this one apart.

Race organization is good, from packet pickup to finish line. The volunteers make this race. They are enthusiastic, helpful and still cheering when the stragglers come through. The traffic support crew makes you feel safe. There is nothing negative about this race except the course itself. The first 8 miles are superb. Running through the rainforest on back roads up and down hills is awesome. The views along the ocean are beautiful. Once you pass the finish line and go through Hilo Bay and Banyon Drive, the course is blazing and repetitive. The post-race food is abundant and includes cold beer and soda. Award recipients stand on a podium and are presented with medals by the local kids in Hawaiian-style grass skirts. The race director, Wayne "Big Dog" Joseph, does an excellent job with this event. He works hard to make it a success.

THANK YOU, director "Big Dog" and supporters, for always putting together a special marathon in my home town! I enjoy returning to my birthplace and running the course through familiar territory, particularly the "old, scenic road" and beautiful Hilo Bay and coast. Everyone's time and effort expended in putting on this well-organized event is appreciated. I particularly love hearing the runner's name and location announced, crossing the finish line. How personal and intimate!

I have run this marathon 5 times. This is one of my favorite marathons out of the 34 I have run and every year it gets better. It is VERY well organized. This year the marathon and half marathon sold out as well as the 5K. I believe the limit is 300 entries per race so be sure you don't procrastinate too much if you are thinking of entering. The sights are amazing, especially the first 8 miles and the last 6. The waterfalls and ocean views are breathtaking. The advantage of this marathon over Honolulu is that you get to start as the sun is rising so you get the chance to enjoy the incredible scenery (rather than running half of it before the sun even rises). I also prefer the size of the marathon. There are plenty of volunteers on the course to offer drinks and cheer you on. And the post massage was incredible this year. I hope the same volunteers return next year. Thank you!

This is a good race, although the comments from previous years seem a bit overly generous. It's a small, community race that draws a decent number of out-of-towners (it's Hawaii after all). About half the course is beautiful, run through the rainforest and along the ocean - while the other half is more of an afterthought, along access roads through the local airport and military base. Great community support - probably more volunteers than runners - and very welcoming aloha spirit. Lots of well-stocked hydration stops; they had wet sponges and GU on the back half. Race Director is a really nice guy and a running purist. The race has the "extras" (pasta dinner, expo, shirts, medals, awards, etc.), although they were nothing to get overly excited about. Instead, the focus seemed to be on the needs of the runners (well-marked course, great hydration stops, post-race reception and massages). Website and pre-race instructions had minimal info, but RD was responsive and always nearby. Compared to big marathons, this one seemed a little hokey and amateur at times, but always genuine.

This was a great race through the scenic side roads of the Big island of Hawaii. I loved the bridges (counted 12 of them), and the waterfalls. I thought the course was fast, especially the first half, which resulted in one of my fastest marathon finishes ever. The support crews do a fantastic job of traffic control and water distribution. I will do it again.

The marathon started in the dark. Shortly after, the sun came up showing beautiful scenery. The first 8 miles were gorgeous with view of the the coast/tropical rainforest. It was hilly, more down than up, but not bad. The rest of the race was fairly flat. Some of it ran around the airport/national guard, but later there was more along the ocean and Banyan Drive, which was pretty. I got an awesome post-race massage... the best I have ever gotten (out of 38 marathons). The finisher's shirt was cool. I tried tarot sweet bread... super yummy! Post-race food and drinks were great. Awards were awesome! The race director was super nice and personable. He runs a well-organized race.

There really are no words to discribe the beauty of this race. You are in Hawaii. The course was harder than I had anticipated, but part of the problem is that it is hard to stay focused. You are constantly looking at the beauty of the course and area. This was my first time to Hawaii and I would recommend this race to everyone who has a desire to compete and see the big island. Memories for a liftetime. Thank you!!

Fifty Staters, Marathon Maniacs and other marathon travelers, Come enjoy the beauty of the 50th state and all the Big Island has to offer. From the beautiful beaches of the Kona coast to the volcanic rain forests of the national park, this island's diversity has much to offer. While you are visiting, run a half or a full marathon. Runners marvel at the beauty of the early miles. The net downhill is forgotten as you weave along the lush valleys of these tropical forests (with a few hills as you climb out of these gulches). Waterfalls and coqui frogs greet the runners as the sun rises over the ocean. The middle miles are less spectacular, as you enter the industrial area around the airport. At mile 17, you return to the coast road with views of the ocean and native fishponds. Caution to our out-of-state guests: the heat and humidity can take a toll in the second half. This small, intimate race is well organized by a veteran runner RD. Don't expect too much at the "expo," or large crowds of spectators. The quality of the volunteers and spectators is great, however, as this small town shares the aloha spirt. Visit the Big Island, run and enjoy a few days playing tourist. Sign up soon as this year's registration closed early.

The Big Island International Marathon is an ideal small marathon. Its organization is superb. The course is well marked with generally accurate markers every mile. Aid stations are well stocked and plentiful. The first half of the course is very scenic, going by some of Hawaii's beautiful waterfalls and beaches. The first 8 miles also contain rolling hills with 3 or 4 pretty steep sections. The hills aren't so much of an issue early in the race when you're going up and down them; you're much more likely to feel their effects around mile 20. After mile 8 the rest of the course is pretty much flat. The second half is not as scenic as the first, but it still offers some good beach views and a trip down Banyan Drive. I've heard it suggested that the BIIM course is about 5 minutes slower than a flat, fast course, and that seems about right to me. Post-race kept up with the high overall quality of the event. There were plentiful massages and refreshments, and there was a very nice award ceremony with awards presented by young hula dancers. The BIIM is a great experience for anyone looking for a small marathon with an intimate, personal feel.

I have run all of the Hawaii Marathons, and the marathons from San Francisco to Boston, and I believe without a doubt that this is the best marathon. In 2010 it was cool and overcast much of the time, with some light rain on and off during the race. The people are just terrific, the true essence of the Aloha spirit. The volunteers were second to none. The scenery is just breathtaking - rivers, streams, waterfalls amongst lush tropical forests, and the beautiful panoramic coastlines... wow.

Well organized, scenic, and the race director (and his wife) really cares about this race. This was my 50th state, so I'm still kind of excited, but I couldn't have chosen a better race. I lost track of the number of local runners who went out of their way to make me and my wife feel welcome, before, during and after the race. The RD gave me bib 50, and answered my emails about what sites to see while there. The pasta dinner had live entertainment, and great food. The first 8 miles were hilly and scenic, just as advertised, so no surprise there. They are intentionally keeping this race small, so sign up early (for only $40!!). Volunteers were great and cheerful, especially for how early in the day it was. Very positive experience.

Small field in a great place however very rainy in 2010. Expo was basically a number pick up and not much else. Course spectators are nil and course markings were severely lacking. Near mile 17 I was lost several times when there were no directions or volunteers pointing the way. At the finish they hand you a printout with your time and place overall and in your division - a nice touch. Overall a good race in paradise, but not a great race.

I read the previous comments about the race and was fairly nervous about the first 8 (allegedly very hilly) miles, however, they weren't that bad! The hills are gradual in grade, and far from being 'roller coaster' like. I didn't have any problem with aching knees (but then again, I ran the half, and I'm a Proud Penguin 10-minute miler). There is also a lot more downhill running than up, so the course (in addition to the cool, early morning weather) can really set you up for a PR/faster than normal run. The course itself is visually spectacular- classic 'old Hawaii,' it feels like a shame to not stop and take pictures of the surfing, the waterfalls, the shady tree-lined roads and little shacks along the river. Though I have to admit, it was the first time I've ever heard roosters throughout the course! ;-) What makes this race special? It's small, personal (I got quick replies to my emailed questions to the Race Director, well organized (the starting line had sunscreen, vaseline, water, gatorade, etc.), affordable (was surprised to get nice, non-cotton race shirt), and did I mention scenic? The only thing the race is lacking is crowd support (it's still a largely rural area you're running in), so if that's important to you, bring friends or an MP3 player... All in all, if you're looking to do a small race in a beautiful setting without the crowds or expense of Maui/Oahu- this is wonderful event. Just remember to register early because their low prices mean they sell out fast! Kudos to the Race Director and his volunteers!

I know Hawaii is supposed to be a tropical paradise (and it is), but this race is literally hell for an arctic dweller. Humidity, steam rising from the streets following intermittent showers and sunshine conspired to make this my worst race. However, beautiful scenery, great organization and wonderful people more than made up for the humidity and temps. The course is tougher than you might first think. Some gnarly hills in the first 8 miles are problematic, as are some scary traffic issues. Watch out for some very territorial roosters when running through the farming areas. Overall a great experience. Just not good for someone used to running in -20!

I was thrilled to find out that the 2009 12th Annual Big Island International Marathon would now include a half marathon as well. I always wanted to run the full Big Island Marathon but I much prefer to train for a half marathon over the brutal Michigan winter and save marathons for later in the year. The course was absolutely amazing, taking you past waterfalls, surf beaches and into Hilo, Hawaii for a nice finish on the waterfront of Hilo Bay. Very well organized by local Wayne "Big Dog" Joseph. Transportation to the starting line was easy and orderly with plenty of buses. The Hilo Hawaiian served as a great host hotel and provided clean bathrooms and a nice, comfortable lobby in which to wait for buses. Once at the starting point water, Gatorade and even bags suitable for making ponchos were provided. I was also impressed with the number of porta-potties available at the start and throughout the race. Obviously the organizers are runners and have provided as only runners could. The finisher shirt has a wonderful artist drawing and is suitable for framing! This was the best of 7 marathons and half marathons I've done. I will be back again for this one.

Really enjoyed it. Looking forward to doing it again. Really nice people.

Big Island International Marathon March 22, 2009 Hilo, HI 6:00 AM Hilo, the second largest city in the state, is located beneath Mauna Kea, the tallest peak in the Big Island. It is the southernmost as well as the wettest city (average annual rainfall is approximately 128 inches at the airport) in the United States. Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park, 29 miles west of Hilo, and Waipio Valley, about 40 miles north of Hilo, are must-see places. I flew into Hilo on Thursday afternoon and stayed in the host hotel, Hilo Hawaiian. At 4:30 AM, busses began transporting the runners to the start line. Temperature was in the 70s. We had access to a community center. The race started at 6:00 AM. Although there was a net drop of 500 feet between miles zero and 10, there were several hills within the first 8 miles, which was also the most scenic part of the route (waterfalls, exotic trees/plants, narrow bridges). From mile 10 to the finish was basically flat. We ran a large number of miles on slanted road shoulders, which made the footing less than desirable. From shortly after miles 17 to shortly after miles 24, it was out and back with our backs to the traffic, and I am one of those who does not like to run with his back to the traffic. Fortunately, there were not too many cars on the road. There were ample water/sports drinks stations. Wet sponges after mile 18 were very much appreciated. There was hardly any crowd support but race volunteers were cheerful. There were rain showers on and off, followed by in-and-out sunshine, which made it immensely humid. There were more than enough recovery food items and drinks at the finish. Each finisher received a short-sleeved cotton T-shirt, medallion, and a bag of coffee. The run was not chip-timed, but individualized race time reports were available a few minutes after crossing the finish line. High humidity made this a very challenging marathon. I would like to thank the race organizers and volunteers. I am a 50-stater and this was #45.

This is a tough course because the first half beats your legs up and then the second half lets you know it. However, I think it is the best in Hawaii because: - March is the perfect time of year to run in Hawaii. Cool enough for most of the race, but still a good beach day if you're lucky! Of course, Hilo is rainy, so plan to spend time all around the island. - Small, intimate event with a maximum of around 300 runners. - Good support along the course; I can't remember ever wishing for a water station - in fact, I found myself skipping a couple. - A chance to see a side of Hawaii that a lot of people don't see because they're spending all of their time on the beaches. Nothing quite like running in a rain forest! From what I hear, other Hawaii races on other islands are very overcrowded and not as well organized. I never felt closer to home than running this very local feeling race.

This run was fun and enjoyable. The views along the way were spectacular. There are areas you run into town and the airport, but overall it's hard to beat the feeling I had coming across the bridge into town and seeing the sun break over the ocean. It rained a little and for a few minutes a little harder than I would have liked, but didn't stop it from being a positive experience overall. Before running I was concerned on how the course was marked and if there would be enough aid stations, but soon found out that wasn't a problem at all. There were people here and there cheering along the way, plenty of aid stations and everyone was very friendly through out the entire run. Because of the amount of rain Hilo gets, the roads shoulders are slanted for run-off a little more than most places, which means if you run on the shoulders in some spots you will be running at an angle. There was enough room to run on the road and avoid this for the most part and was only a problem in a few areas.

This race has everything you could want: - During (our) spring break - Reasonable entry fee ($70/90 late) - Host hotel only $110 w/ view of ocean and only 1/2 mile from finish - Small expo with free massages - Free, short bus ride to start - Inside place to wait at start - Conscientious race director - Beautiful course (first 8 miles and parts of end) - Small field (260) - Adequate water stops, gel at 18, new sponges every 2 miles - Flat after mile 10 - Course passes hotel twice - Early start, so finishes early - Cooling rain - Announcer calling out your name - Hula girls handing out medals - Printed times handed to you - Massages at finish - Easy walk/ample parking - Aloha spirit Go early and "acclimate" yourself to the island by staying on the dryer western coast/in Kona, so you can have some fun first - lots to do (but bring plenty of money). The drive to Hilo is 2 hours, and it's good for one night. You can carbo load on the amazing smoothies at What's Shakin' at mile 2 of the course (look for the "scenic drive" signs - take pictures so your friends will be jealous!) and eat dinner on the main street downtown at Cafe Pesto. I wish every marathon were this well run, this runner-friendly, this beautiful, this memorable.

After reading comments about other 26.2's, this one got my attention to be my first. Boy did I pick right! What an incredible experience. Wayne "Big Dog" knows what he is doing, and adding a half next year shows that this event weekend will only get bigger. For the race, I have all good things to say. The first 8 or so are through rolling hills of rain forests and waterfalls (I brought a disposable camera). Rolling hills that drop 500 feet into Hilo, where you run past the finish the first of three times. The run to and around the airport is tough, with little crowd support. The portion between the airport and the turn-around got a bit warm, but was flat. Finishing was great; you can see the end, but have to do a "victory lap" around the park before the finish straight-away. The aid stations were fantastic! Well supplied and cheerfully staffed! I will be back next year to challenge this course again.

What can be better than running in Hawaii?

I've lived in Hawaii for 16 years, and this course even takes MY breath away (figuratively speaking only, of course). The first half is on winding, rolling hills... usually with a light rain, while the sun is rising. I can't believe more runners do not show up for this event. I have run it four times, and cannot wait to run it again. Kudos to whoever thought of beginning down the Hamakua Coast. Beautiful!!!

The first half of the marathon (to 11 miles) is straight downhill, 500 ft. net downhill to be exact. This is hard on the knees, although it is easier for people who aren't running that fast. And the strain it actually causes on your knees doesn't become apparent to you until you reach the 6 mile or more stretch of sideways slanted road, where you calf, knee, and quads absolutely suffer. The aid stations were scanty to say the least - one was 3 or 4 miles away from another... in the hot, humid air, aid stations are vital! Lastly, I believe I saw a total of 50 supports along the course... it was like I was running a marathon by myself. I dropped 20 minutes off my best time because of running big island. Unless you plan on walking/jogging this marathon for the scenery, don't expect a pleasant run!

This was the 10th running of this marathon. I have run it 8 times. It is outstanding in all ways. Small, no hassles, great organization, excellent aid stations, great finish line refreshments, great for spectators in that runners cross near the finish line area at about 11 miles, again during the last mile, & finally at the finish. So without logistics issues, family & friends can see you running (& take pictures) these 3 times just by just hanging out & walking around the finish area. Other highlights are a 5K & a 10.8 mile race run concurrently for any family or friends who want to do a shorter race & still see you doing the marathon. Marathon age group awards are mostly in 5 year increments so more chance for an award. This race is run during a relatively cool time in Hawaii. The marathon & 10.8 mile courses are absolutely beautiful, Hawaiian style. Be aware that Hilo is a very rainy area & this could be a problem in a long race. However in the 8 I have run, rain has never been a problem & the light rain that has fallen has helped the runners. Congrats to race director, Big Dog, & all the volunteers for another oustanding Big Island Interational Marathon. Mahalo!!