XTERRA Trail Running World Championship - Oahu, Hawaii

(Photos below were taken on my iPhone)
This was the most breathtaking place I have ever ran. Below is the view of  Kaʻaʻawa Valley, this was sacred to ancient Oahuans from the 13th to the 18th century.

gas mask guys

first mile -- was already tired because of the steep hill

I have no idea what this was --probably part of a movie set

Overlooking Chinaman's Hat

10K people were passing us

Pearl Harbor movie set

The highest point of the race --this was very muddy and dangerous

Finally finished the race --with  my finisher's medal on.

Heading back to my car!! What a beautiful sight!!

Gunstock Ranch Half Marathon

Gunstock Ranch

Diamond Head hike

Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater located in Honolulu, Hawaii on the island of Oahu. It is located a short distance from Waikiki. A hike up the crater provides good exercise and spectacular 360-degree views of the island.

There are two sets of stairs, one with 99 steps and the other, 76 steps. There is also a 225-foot unlit tunnel. The hike is classified as easy to moderate in exertion but is certainly worth the breathtaking, unparalleled view of the entire west side of the island, from Waikiki to Koko Head.

Useful Information:

• Diamond Head Trail is 1 ¾ miles to the rim and takes about 1 ½ hours
• There is NO shade schedule an early hike
• Bring water and a flashlight (for the tunnel)
• Bathrooms available at the trailhead

Kahala tunnel to access the crater, entrance and parking lot.

Heading towards the trail

Inside the crater

A cool recycling bin/cage

Sunset Beach - North Shore

One of the longest sand beaches in Oahu running two miles in length and 200-300 feet wide. This beach is located right next to 'Ehukai, or "Reddish Tinged Water", the home of the famous Bonzai Pipeline. In the Summer when the ocean is calm, this beach has crystal clear water and beautiful white sand. The area is great for swimming and snorkeling. There is also wonderful tide pools great for collecting shells and observing the wonders of nature. During the Winter months this beach is one of the best for surfing with waves often between fifteen and twenty feet high making it perfect for yearly international surfing competitions.