From the Pacific to Volcano, there are two more sure signs that athletes and organizers are ready for a return to normalcy.
A pair of popular events, the Richardson Roughwater Swim and the Ohia Lehua Run, are back on after a one-year absence, open to registration and set to follow COVID-19 guidelines.
The 33rd edition of the 1-mile open-ocean swim will be held Aug. 8, the county announced Wednesday, and the last women’s champion, Korrie Tengan, confirmed to the Tribune-Herald that she is ready to compete.
“I love the change in environment and being able to swim a different type of race,” Tengan, a former BIIF champ and 2021 Waiakea graduate. “It’s a change in pace compared to competitive pool swimming. I like that I am able to push my endurance and long distance.
“I also like that I am able to compete with other swimmers in the community and my club teammates.”
The second annual Ohia Lehua Run will be held Aug. 14 and consists of a half-marathon and a 5-kilometer run.
Race director Keely McGhee said the event is one of the first county-approved running events to take place this year.
“(The) goal is to bring business to the Volcano area while providing a low cost running event for the community,” she said. “In addition, the race will be donating a portion of its proceeds to the Volcano community.”
• Registration forms for the Richardson Roughwater Swim are available at all county pools and at the recreation division office at 799 Piilani St. in Hilo. The registration fee is $20 through July 31, and $30 thereafter. Participants will be divided into age groups in the fins and no-fins categories.
According to a release, the public is encouraged to register early to assist in planning and organizing efforts. Commemorative T-shirts will be provided to registered participants while supplies last.
For more information, contact the recreation division office at 961-8740 or aquatics@hawaiicounty.gov.
• The Ohia Lehua Run half-marathon will begin at 7 a.m. at the Volcano School of Arts & Sciences campus on Old Volcano Road, with the 5K starting shortly thereafter. The runs also finish at the school. The half-marathon is $90, and the 5K is $50.
To register and for information, visit www.ohialehuahalf.com. Also, email McGhee at ohialehuahalf@gmail.com.