Past Events

Talk Story at Kahaluu Bay

Race for the Reef

The first annual Race for the Reef event at Kahaluu Beach Park on March 17th raised $2,000! This money will help keep toxic chemicals out of the bay and off the coral by supplying mineral sunscreen to the public for free in dispensers at the park. This year we enjoyed the St. Patrick’s Day theme — hence the winners wearing leprechaun hats.

Thanks to all of those who donated! We look forward to holding this race again in February 2025 over President’s Day weekend, so mark you calendars!

The participants ran/walked the 5k course and returned to prizes and a discussion about the ReefTeach program. The ReefTeach program is made up of volunteers who help educate visitors on: safety in the bay, how to care for the coral and marine life, and the importance of wearing mineral sunscreen and rash guards in the bay while snorkeling.

Learn more about ReefTeach and the volunteer opportunities available from The Kohala Center's Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center.

First place finishers Vicki Hunter and Noah Langford.

Second place finishers Eric Ziemelis and Jodie Tanino.

365 Hawai'i Island Community Fund Board members: Bruce Prunk, Michael O’Conner, Kristine Dunker, Julie Ziemelis, and Cindi Punihaole (not pictured)

Participants leave Kahalu‘u Beach Park and head north along Ali'i Drive in Kailua Kona.

Group photo of all the runners and volunteers at Kahalu‘u Beach Park.

ReefTeach volunteers helped greet runners and discuss the volunteer program.