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The Great Aloha Run, a cherished community event in Hawaii, has ended after 41 years. Founded in 1985 by Carole Kai Onouye and the late Jack Scaff, the 8.15-mile race became a staple in Honolulu, attracting over 750,000 participants from around the world. The event concluded with its final run in February, raising approximately $150,000 for local charities. Over its history, the run raised nearly $20 million for more than 200 nonprofit organizations, supporting health, education, and community services.
Carole Kai Onouye, who announced her retirement, expressed gratitude for the support from volunteers, sponsors, and participants. "The Great Aloha Run has always been about bringing people together, supporting causes that matter, and creating something positive year after year," she said. Onouye hopes the spirit of the event will continue and inspire future initiatives.
The race, known for its inclusivity, welcomed elite athletes, military units, and casual participants. It also inspired the Keiki Great Aloha Run, which involved about 40,000 children and raised over $250,000 for local schools. The race's end marks a significant moment for Hawaii's running community, with many hoping someone will revive the event in the future.