HONOLULU (KHON2) -- World Running Day is a global celebration dedicated to the joys of running, held annually to inspire and unite runners of all levels. This event encourages people to hit the pavement, trails, or treadmills, fostering a sense of community and promoting health and fitness worldwide.
KHON2.com was able to catch up with Tomoki Kamo who is the manager at Runner's Route. He shared some exciting details about their involvement in this event.
"Runner's Route has been a part of Hawaiʻi's running community since 1983," Kamo explained. "We started as a local business, and as the original owner aged, we took over to keep the spirit of running alive in Hawaiʻi."
Runner's Route isn't just a store; it's a hub for the running community. With locations in Honolulu and Aiea, they offer more than just shoes.
"Our staff are all experienced in various forms of exercise, and we stay updated on the latest products and training ideas to help our customers," Kamo said.
World Running Day is a big deal for Runner's Route. Although they don't host a specific event, they see a lot of excitement around this day.
"People love to share their running experiences on social media with hashtags like #GlobalRunningDay," Kamo mentioned. "It's a day when the community comes together, even if just virtually."
Runner's Route also supports local running groups.
"Every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., we host a running group from our Honolulu location," Kamo explained. "People run together, covering four to six miles, and it’s a great way to stay active and connected."
This group, known as the Honolulu Runners, welcomes anyone looking for a fun, social run. "Just stop by a bit before 5:30 PM, sign a simple waiver, and join in," Kamo added.
Since COVID-19, there's been a noticeable increase in interest in running and fitness.
"During the pandemic, many events were canceled, but now they're making a comeback," Kamo noted. "Events like the Honolulu Marathon and Spartan Race are drawing more participants, and people are excited to be active again."
So, whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, Runner's Route offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
Their commitment to the running community makes them a cornerstone of fitness in Hawaiʻi, embodying the spirit of World Running Day. Celebrate with them, join a group run, and share your journey with fellow runners.
You can watch Kamo's full interview in the video above.
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