Organizers of the sold-out Kauaʻi Marathon and Half Marathon, sadly, announced on the event website in a blog post by Robin Jumper that the 2026 race is canceled because of approaching Hurricane Lowell.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the cancellation,” says the blog post. “This was a difficult decision, and not one we wanted to make. Our production team has worked tirelessly to produce an amazing race for all of you.”
The team prepared every detail, right down to water, ice and finish line food, which will now be donated to the community in preparation for the hurricane. Residents can pick up the supplies from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday at the Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi group entrance.
Concern wasn’t for weather on Marathon Day, originally planned for Sunday. National Weather Service forecast calls for showers, but mainly after noon (the race was slated to start at 6 a.m.).
This was a last resort decision.
“Over the past 48 hours we explored alternate routes, reduced road closures and other adjustments. None of those options were acceptable,” the blog post says. “After close consultation with the County of Kauaʻi’s emergency response agencies, we have been advised that cancellation is the only responsible option.”
Two priorities guided the decision:
- Community preparedness. Race day road closures throughout Kōloa, Poʻipū, ʻŌmaʻo, Lāwaʻi and Kalāheo would restrict movement at the exact time Kauaʻi residents and businesses need open roads to finish storm preparations for Hurricane Lowell.
- Runner and volunteer safety. Conditions associated with the approaching storm, and public safety resources needed to support a large road race, cannot be guaranteed.
“We know that many of you trained for months and traveled a long way to experience the allure of the Garden Isle. We are absolutely crushed,” the blog post says.
Participants are asked to follow official Kauaʻi County and National Weather Service guidance. Prepare now. Check on neighbors and friends and keep roads clear for emergency and community use.
“Mahalo nui loa to our runners, volunteers, sponsors, county partners and to the people of Kauaʻi. We will be back in 2027. Until then, please take care of one another,” says the blog post. “Warmest aloha, the Kauaʻi Marathon and Half Marathon ‘Ohana.”
