9th annual Bum Run to raise awareness about colon cancer, funds for Relay for Life Kaua‘i

Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa in Kōloa announces the Ninth Annual Bum Run Kaua‘i in partnership with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Kaua‘i.

The annual event — planned for March 7 this year — raises awareness for colon cancer prevention and early detection in observance of Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March.

Participants of all skills are invited to run or walk a scenic 2.5-mile trail through Poʻipū Bay Golf Course, featuring sweeping ocean views and emerald mountain backdrops with wildlife such as breaching humpback whales spotted along the way.

Bum Run Kaua‘i also will host a silent auction with prizes including hotel stays in the islands and on the mainland, activities and dining.

Proceeds from the run and accompanying silent auction will benefit Relay for Life Kaua‘i.

The event holds deep significance for the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i team, as the disease has touched the lives of numerous resort employees and their ‘ohana.

“With this event we raise awareness of the importance of early screening for colon cancer, support those dealing with it and provide hope for this highly treatable and curable disease,” said Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa Director of Marketing Communications Diann Hartman in an announcement about this year’s event. “What began as a deeply personal journey when I was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2014 has grown into something far greater.

Hartman said every step taken during the annual Bum Run represents hope for survivors, their families and a future where fewer people are affected by this devastating disease.

Colon cancer rates continue to rise, especially among younger adults — it is now the No. 1 cancer killer of people younger than 50 years old — so raising awareness and encouraging early screening has never been more important.

Hartman added that from island healthcare providers to families touched by the disease to visitors on the Garden Island, support for Bum Run Kaua‘i is incredible.

“Events like the Bum Run show how powerful a united community can be,” said American Cancer Society Development Manager Kittrin Cade in the event announcement. “Every participant, every dollar raised and every conversation sparked by this incredible event is vital to raising awareness of colon cancer and the importance of early screening.”

Advance online registration for the Bum Run is now available. Registration the day of the event opens at 7 a.m., with the run beginning promptly at 7:30 a.m.

Registration cost is $40 for adults, $20 for children ages 6 to 17 years old and free for children 5 years old and younger.