The first-ever HI-PAL Keiki Fun Run/Walk will be held at Kona's West Hawai‘i Civic Center on January 18. Organized by the Hawai‘i Police Department, the event aims to build connections between keiki (children) and the local police force, while promoting health and community unity. Registration will begin at 7:00 a.m., with events taking place from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
The event, open to children aged 5 to 17, is divided into three age categories with different race distances. The 5-8 age group will start with a 200-yard dash, followed by a half-mile run for ages 9-12, and a one-mile course for the 13-17 age group. The race will take place along the bike path of Ane Keohokalole Highway, with the goal of promoting positive values in an enjoyable setting.
Participants will have the opportunity to take part in the competition, and after the race, refreshments will be provided, along with medals for all to acknowledge their completion. Officer Wyattlane Nahale of the Kona Community Policing relayed the purpose behind the endeavor, stating, "We hope to promote good health, teamwork, and unity, while fostering positive interaction between police officers and our community," according to the event's official announcement.
For more information or to get involved in West Hawai‘i’s HI-PAL events, Officer Nahale can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at (808) 326-4646, ext. 258.
