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Volcano Ohia Lehua 5k Race Report

A little rain wasn't going to stop us! The Volcano Ohia Lehua 5k and Half Marathon weekend was a smashing success. Jason did an amazing job, and it was so much fun to be out amongst so many runners ready to have a great time. The gratitude to be there was palpable, and despite the drizzle, everyone finished with huge smiles on their faces.



We stayed at the Namakanipaio Campground in cabins which included a twin bunk bed, full size bed, complete with linens and a shower facility at the site. It was rustic and perfect, with a hiking trail leading to the volcano rim. We took the short hike over on Friday after arriving and had fun playing in the wind and kicking back before an early bedtime.









Race morning we were preparing to head to the start when our neighboring camper accidentally set his rental car alarm off. It caught our attention since it was 6:30am and as we all giggled about it waking up camp, I noticed he had on the same race shirt Jason and I had as well. Since Evan was still sound asleep, and it didn't make sense to take the car if we didn't need to, we hitched a ride with our new friend and had a fun pre-race experience sharing training tips and getting excited for the upcoming race.

While it was clear skies at the cabin, the race course only three miles away held a different vibe. It rained on and off for the next hour, and I was glad I was totally prepared from my Coast to Coast Challenge. I had hand warmers, my space blankets, ponchos, water, sunscreen, snacks...you name it! They don't call me the Average IronMOM for nothing!! So what if it was 75 degrees in Hawaii. I was still chilly, as I normally am. And yes, I thoroughly embarrassed Jason with my momish preparedness.

So we were ready to go, waiting under a covered area at the Volcano Art School until the 5k start at 7:15am (the half started at 7am).

While waiting we met another couple who had just completed the 50 States Half Marathon Challenge and this would be their 84th half marathon in total. Talk about a great accomplishment! Boy did that spark and idea that I'm going to run with!!

If was finally our turn to start, and 3, 2, 1...we're off! The beginning of the race is downhill and I took the opportunity to teach my young son about pacing and the fact that what goes down must come up in a looped race. 

Despite my warning, he did have a faster pace than I, so I encouraged him to go at his pace, and meet me at the finish line. I wasn't feeling tip top that morning...it could have been the hot dogs we had for our camping dinner (never again) or the ovarian cyst I've been dealing with for the past few months, but my body was telling me to take it easy. I was also having trouble with the rain and my new contact lenses, which I couldn't see out of for a good mile in the middle of the race. I couldn't blink out the water like my old lenses...next time I'll wear a hat for sure!


The course was through a little neighborhood that I would never have even knew was out there. The plants and trees were beautiful and it was a very peaceful event. Parents were pushing strollers, Fireball Joe and Eddie-O were out there and everyone just had the best time.

I did my run/walk method, and eventually warmed up enough to mostly run at the end. I know my body likes longer distances, usually catching my stride after about 4 or 5 miles so for me a 5k just isn't quite enough to feel the flow, but it's so fun none the less. I don't run to compete. I run for fun!

 I caught back up to Jason (who said he was waiting forever for me to catch up to him...yeah right!) and we finished the race together.



He was so happy and grateful to participate. It made me so proud that he had such a fun time and we did it together. We had warm breakfast burritos at the race finish and called Jeff for a ride back to the cabin, where we were greeted with a rainbow.



It was a huge success and gave me the idea for my next big Ironmom Adventure. 50 Half Marathons in 50 States by my 50th Birthday. Now that just makes sense. Let's do it!!



Until next time,

Keep moving!

đź’•Coach Kelsie Wehren

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