Annual 5K Run in Henderson: Fundraising Event for Kid's Bicycle Education

Annual 5K Run in Henderson: Fundraising Event for Kid's Bicycle Education

Liven Up Your Weekend with Purpose: PATH's May Day 5K

Explore the vibrant energy of Kailua-Kona as the West Hawaii Civic Center transforms into a hub of fitness and community spirit during PATH's May Day 5K event!

On Sunday, the West Hawaii Civic Center came alive as runners, walkers, and families collectively laced up their shoes, joining forces to support PATH (People for Active Transportation Hawaii). This dedicated nonprofit organization aims to bring safe, accessible, and active transportation to communities across the Big Island.

The event harmoniously combined health, wellness, and aloha, perfectly timed to celebrate the Hawaiian traditions of May Day and the spirit of giving back. Over 50 enthusiastic participants embarked on Queen's Lei trail along Ane Keohokalole Highway, making the run a double victory - raising funds and awareness for PATH's hands-on Bike Ed program.

Kelly Hudik, chief operating officer for PATH and race director, expressed the importance of the event :

"This race is a fundraiser for PATH, aiding our Bike Education program. We don't want to close roads downtown, so we're holding it at the West Hawaii Civic Center. The Queen's Lei protected pathway along Anekeohokalole Highway is also one of the projects PATH has put in place for the community. It highlights just one of the many things PATH does to advocate for safe walking and biking trails around the island."

With Star Wars fans' "May the 4th Be with You" in mind, PATH's Bike Ed program took center stage. This program has been empowering 4th-grade students across the Big Island since nearly a quarter-century, teaching them essential skills for riding safely on roads and navigating real-life traffic situations. Over the past year, PATH has reached over 1,000 students through this program, many of whom would not have had access to this hands-on education otherwise.

"In two weeks, PATH will cap off a busy year at Honokaa Elementary School," said Hudik. "We provide each student with a free bike helmet, and this event will help cover the funding costs for that. Each helmet costs around $15, so the funds raised here will enable us to continue providing these crucial safety lessons for kids."

No matter the pace, participants came together to support a cause that matters: creating safe and active transportation across Hawaii. Crossing the finish line was Keegan Pacchioi with a time of 20 minutes and 41 seconds, setting the pace for regularly seasoned runners, weekend enthusiasts, and families alike. Keiki tagged along with parents, demonstrating that everyone had a part to play in moving forward together.

Programs like PATH's Bike Ed program are more important than ever in today's bustling world where roads are busy and distractions are abundant. PATH will continue rolling forward as one school, one student, one safe ride at a time, with your support.

To learn more about PATH, donate, or volunteer, visit www.pathhawaii.org.

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1. The May Day 5K event in Kailua-Kona was a fusion of community spirit, health, and wellness, rearrying support for PATH, an organization focused on safe and accessible transportation.
2. The run along Queen's Lei trail, a project initiated by PATH, also served as a fundraiser for the organization's Bike Ed program, which educates 4th-graders on traffic safety for over two decades.
3. Numerous sports enthusiasts, families, and walkers took part in this event, showcasing their dedication to the cause of safe transportation within the community.
4. In keeping with the spirit of science and fitness, PATH's Bike Ed program equips students with lifesaving skills, helping them navigate through real-world traffic and avoid potential hazards on the road.
5. Furthermore, the funds raised from this event help provide essential safety equipment like helmets for students, ensuring they remain protected during their active commuting journey.
6. With over 1,000 students reached and counting, PATH's Bike Ed program is a vital initiative in today's busy world, teaching the necessity of cyclists following traffic rules and prioritizing their health and well-being.
7. By participating in events like the May Day 5K or supporting PATH through donations or volunteering, the community can help create a healthier, more active, and safer Hawaii for both children and adults.

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