Powered by the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority

KAILUA-KONA, HI — The early morning chill and a luminous rainbow over HOST Park set a breathtaking stage for the race, but it couldn’t match the warmth of the community spirit on display.

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of the first-ever Cold Start, Warm Finish 5k/10k Run/Walk community fun run. The event was a certified hit, officially selling out—and ultimately over-selling—all available spots for the 5K race.

“The event’s namesake, Cold Start, Warm Finish, resonated with participants as they trek through the scenic coastal course. The route offered stunning ocean views and a professionally managed path, featuring a unique HOST Park highlight: refreshing deep-sea water showers lined along the course. These cooling stations offered runners the exhilarating chance to run through pristine, chilled ocean water to stay refreshed mid-race. Emcee Eddie-O kept up the energy with his lively commentary and infectious enthusiasm, fueling the crowd from the first call to the final finisher, adding fun tidbits about HOST Park.

“We knew HOST Park was the perfect venue, but the community’s response exceeded our wildest dreams,” said Keith Olson, CSWF organizer. “To oversell our first year is a testament to the local passion for wellness. Seeing the kids at the Keiki Dash and the crowd enjoying the wellness market proved that this event is about much more than just a 5K/10K run.”

Beyond the main race, the event transformed HOST Park into a vibrant hub of activity, with a Zumba dance party starting soon after the first runners crossed the finishing line.

Even the youngest athletes got into the action, diligently finishing their warm-ups with fun dance moves before taking their marks at the Keiki Dash starting line. The energy reached a fever pitch as young runners were chasing after Dr. Jeff McDevitt, who was leading them on a bike around the Mauka Research Campus parking lot.

Participants and spectators stayed long after their “warm finish” to explore the Health & Wellness Market. The market featured local vendors and wellness advocates, providing the community with resources ranging from nutrition tips to fitness recovery. Tired runners also checked out the deep-sea foot soak, with many marveling at how cold 4 degrees Celsius was.

Due to a surge in last-minute interest, the 5K reached capacity and beyond, signaling a strong demand for more health-oriented community events at HOST Park.

Race Results

This successful community milestone was made possible through a vital partnership with Aloha Tri Sports, whose expertise helped ensure a seamless race experience. The generous support of local sponsors, including Nutrex Hawaii, Keauhou Veterinary Hospital, and Bike Works Kona also bolstered the event.

Plans are already being discussed to expand the event next year to accommodate even more runners and vendors, ensuring that no one is left at the starting line.

Race Photos

Mahalo to Nutrex Hawaii | Keauhou Veterinary Hospital | Bike Works Kona | Kona Limu Company | Zumba | Hawaii Keiki Museum | HMAA | Salty Swim School | Hawaii Life Flight | Big Island Running Company | Life Flight Network | Kohola Coffee | Rabbit Hill Co. | CrossFit Kona | The Kohala Center | Kona Salt Farm | Kona Country Club | Hawaii Forest and Trail | KBXtreme | Body Glove Cruises | Merriman’s Waimea | UFO Parasail & Adventures | Global OTEC | Matsuyama’s Food and Fuel | Kohola Coffee | Kona Limu Co. | Kona Coast Nutrients | Ke Kai Ola – The Marine Mammal Center

About HOST Park & NELHA
HOST Park is a world-class 870-acre outdoor demonstration site located at Keahole Point in Kailua-Kona. Managed by NELHA, a state agency attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, HOST Park is a premier hub for sustainable development. The park is globally recognized for its unique dual-temperature seawater system and its commitment to community engagement and promoting a sustainable future for Hawaii. For more information, visit www.nelha.hawaii.gov.