Under the Moon

Under the Moon returns to Hilo, Hawaii on August 1st for its annual running event featuring distances of 100K, 50K, and 25K races. The race begins at different times: 5pm sharp in the KTA parking lot on Puainako Street for the 100k runners; participants will gather again later that evening near Mauna Kea access road for both the 8pm start of the 50k and a subsequent gathering at Kilohana Hunters Station for those racing the shorter but still challenging 25K event beginning at 9pm. The race offers unique challenges across various distances, all setting off from Hilo’s KTA parking lot.
The atmosphere on race day is one of anticipation as runners prepare under changing conditions: early evening and late night starts mean that participants must adapt to cooler temperatures and potentially inclement weather ranging from mild rain showers to strong winds. The starting point in the city center transforms into a bustling gathering spot where competitors, volunteers, and spectators come together before dispersing along Saddle Road towards Waimea.
With roots dating back several years and featuring contributions by notable figures like Kawika Spaulding, Under the Moon has become an integral part of Hilo’s running culture. The event attracts runners from all over Hawaii who participate in this unique challenge that highlights both endurance and resilience against varying environmental conditions throughout the night. Proceeds support various local initiatives enhancing community engagement through sport.
The course for Under the Moon is primarily pavement along Saddle Road, offering a mix of elevation gain and descent across its length. The 100k route includes significant climbs in the first half with approximately 7,500 feet gained followed by nearly 5,000 feet descending back to Hilo or Mauna Kea Access Road intersection; for the 50K race there's a more modest ascent of about 700 feet and descent along Saddle Road. The shorter but still rigorous 25k route features close to 3,000 feet in elevation loss as runners traverse through challenging terrain.
Aid stations are self-supported requiring participants to carry their own supplies or have crew members meet them at designated points off the road safely clear of traffic flow. Runners must clean up after themselves ensuring no waste is left along the route. Strict rules apply regarding safety, especially for relay teams swapping runners who must pull completely onto shoulders allowing others passage.
Weather conditions on race day are expected to be mild with average temperatures around 23.7°C and varying from a low of about 20.3°C to highs reaching up to 27.0°C; humidity levels at approximately 78% could make the evening chillier than typical daytime readings in Hilo during August. Runners should prepare for winds averaging nearly 9km/h, which may increase perceived coldness especially later into night hours.
The Under the Moon race offers a variety of distances including a full marathon distance equivalent (100K), half-marathon length options both relay and solo (50k/25k). Participants can choose from fees ranging between $30 for an individual 50K entry to $75 for team entries in any category.
To register visit the event page at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138735. Registration closes on July 26th with varying start times allowing early access arrangements upon request post sign-up through contacting race organizers directly. Bib pickup will occur between 4:00pm and 5:30pm for the longest distance, earlier in the evening closer to start times for shorter races.
The starting location is located at 50 E Puainako St., Hilo where all participants should gather prior to their respective race commencement times. Age requirements vary but generally open to runners over 18 years old unless otherwise specified by event organizers based on distance considerations. First-time attendees are advised to arrive early, check-in details provided above and familiarize themselves with safety protocols.
Under the Moon in Hilo, Hawaii on August 1st is a testament to endurance running culture under unique conditions where participants face varied weather elements over challenging terrain from dusk till dawn or longer for those tackling ultra distances. This event highlights community spirit through athletic competition and support systems essential for completing such feats of physical prowess and mental fortitude.