42.195 km
Distance
600 m
Elevation Gain
4:22:00
Average Finish Time
650
Total Finishers
1984
Established
Rolling
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Course & Elevation
The Big Island Marathon starts in Hilo on the windward side and travels south along the Kona coast, showcasing Hawaii's volcanic landscape and diverse ecosystems. Runners experience coastal ocean views, lava fields, and the transition from tropical rainforest to drier Kona conditions. The course is relatively fast despite moderate elevation changes, with most of the challenge in the latter miles due to increased heat and sun exposure on the exposed Kona side.
🌤️ Weather
Warm tropical conditions with possible light rain in the morning. Windward Hilo side starts cooler and wetter, transitioning to dry Kona conditions with strong sun exposure in the afternoon.
🏆 Course Record
02:21:47
Mauricio Mendez (2010)
Registration
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🎯 Fun Facts
- ▸ One of the oldest marathons in Hawaii, established in 1984 to commemorate the opening of the Hilo side of the Big Island to marathon running
- ▸ The course crosses the Saddle Road area between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, passing near volcanic cones and lava fields that shaped the landscape
- ▸ Runners experience a dramatic climate shift from the wet windward side (Hilo receives 127+ inches of rain annually) to the dry Kona coast in a single race
- ▸ The race attracts many local runners seeking a Boston Marathon qualifier on a course with favorable conditions and community support
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