KAILUA-KONA — Runners across the island gathered along the Queen’s Lei trail path along Ane Keohokalole Highway on Saturday for what has become one of the more feel-good events on the local calendar, the May Day 5K.

Read more ‘Very busy’ hurricane season forecast for Central Pacific

KAILUA-KONA — Runners across the island gathered along the Queen’s Lei trail path along Ane Keohokalole Highway on Saturday for what has become one of the more feel-good events on the local calendar, the May Day 5K.

The third annual event was a fundraiser for PATH (People for Active Transportation Hawaii), a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to bring safe, accessible and active transportation opportunities in communities throughout the Big Island.

“This 5K event helps to celebrate PATH along with their walking programs and our Bike Ed programs,” said Kelly Hudik, chief operating officer for PATH and race director. “It’s a great way to get people out and active in the community while feeling safe out on the roads.”

Read more Permits granted to carry concealed guns up 54%

Hudik added that this year was also PATH’s 40th anniversary.

“We are celebrating 40 years of PATH being in the community,” Hudik said. “Some of our accomplishments include getting the Queen’s Lei trail built, Walua Road trail built, and having our Bike Ed program for over 25 years. We teach an average of over 1000 kids per year how to ride bikes and give them free helmets. We are celebrating the impact we’ve had in the community.”

While the focus of this event has never been about the results, the top three did not go unrecognized. Summer Corke wasted no time to charge to the front to win the overall title in a fantastic time of 20 minutes and 19 seconds. Not too far back was Keegan Pacchioni, who ran with his dog, in a time of 20:47. Rounding out the top three was Big Island Running Company’s, Jason Braswell, in a great time of 21:21.

After 40 years, PATH isn’t slowing down. Coming up will be the May Bike Month Fun Ride &Tailgate Talk Story on Friday, May 22nd. The free group ride and community event will start at 5:30 PM at the Food Truck held at the former K-Mart parking lot. Then on Saturday, May 23rd is the annual Ride of Silence starting at 9 AM at the Kona Aquatic Community Center parking lot. Anyone interested in learning more about PATH, donating to PATH, or volunteering for a bike education program, please visit their website at www.pathhawaii.org.

Read more Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani beats Padres with his bat, arm