HONOLULU (KHON2) — The 2024 Honolulu Marathon had the most participants since 1995, according to race officials, with over 36,122 entries.
People from across the globe raced in the 26.2 mile course from downtown Honolulu to Hawaii Kai, ending at Kapiolani Park in Waikiki.
One family was decked out in Christmas decorations and said they’ve been running marathons with their 10-year-old daughter for two-years now.
“I ran the full marathon before, and since she was born, we wanted to do something as a family, and so we’ve started with 10k’s and then we will move to the full marathon,” explained Hawaii resident Mikimano.
This year, many Hawaii residents decided to give the marathon a try for the first time.
“Just for the heck of it,” said one participant. “We live here and never experienced this.”
Miss Hawaii Teen Nicole McClain was seen running the race solo for her first time. “I’m feeling really good, I’m excited, I just wanted to push myself and get out there, ” she said.
Marathon officials said 39 percent of participants were Hawaii residents and over 60 percent were visitors.
But the race was neck and neck between the elite runners.
Kenya’s Reuben Kerio was leading the race up to the halfway point.
Then, 26-year-old Yemane Haileselassie, from Eritrea, said he had a surge of energy and took the lead.
“I feel amazing, it wasn’t easy, it’s very tough,” Haileselassie said.
He crossed the finish line 17 seconds ahead of Kerio to win first place.
His time was 2:11:59, exactly four minutes shy of the record which was set in 2019.
Haileselassie said this was his first Honolulu marathon and his second marathon ever.
Kalihi resident Jay Dela Cruz was the first Hawaii resident to cross the finish line, he finished in 21st place overall.
“I’m feeling good, I’m feeling great, it’s awesome, this is actually my 11th year doing this race, it’s a home race for me,” he said while smiling ear to ear.
This is his sixth marathon this year and will run again next week on Hawaii island.
Cynthia Limo was the overall female winner, reclaiming her first place title for the second year in a row. She finished about two minutes earlier than she did in 2023.
And one New York resident crossed the finish line with his two daughters in his arms.
“Today was the 50th state I’ve done a marathon in in under three hours for each marathon,” explained Ben Jones.
He has now completed all 50 states in 14 years.
“It was beautiful, a little warm for my taste, but the crowd support was great, and it was definitely a memorable one for my final one,” he added.