2026 Kauai Marathon, Half Marathon cancelled as Hurricane Lowell approaches

News admin September 6, 2026 0 Comments

2026 Kauai Marathon, Half Marathon cancelled as Hurricane Lowell approaches

KAUAI (HawaiiNewsNow) – The 2026 Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon have officially been cancelled ahead of Hurricane Lowell’s arrival.

Both were scheduled to take place Sunday.

As of Saturday, a tropical storm watch has been issued for Kauai and Niihau as Lowell has begun its expected turn west-northwest as a powerful category 4 system. It is currently tracking just west of the county.

Race officials said they consulted with the county and explored alternate routes, reduced road closures and other adjustments. However, they were advised that cancellation is the only responsible option.

“We’ve been working really hard for the 2026 Kauai Marathon. We just received a warning notification from the County of Kauai National Hurricane Center that impedes us from hosting the event. And that means that we are no longer able to host it because out of an abundance of caution, the county is pulling back permit in any county support,” said co-race director JT Service in a social media post announcing the cancellation.

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Organizers said that while Sunday morning is favorable, the concern is Monday and Tuesday as Lowell approaches.

The cancellation was guided by two priorities:

Marathon organizers said that water, ice and finish line food will be donated to the local community in preparation for the storm. Pick-up will be Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Group Entrance.

In a statement, race organizers said:

“This was a last-resort decision. We know that many of you trained for months and traveled a long way to experience the allure of the Garden Isle. We are absolutely crushed.

Please follow official County of Kauai and National Weather Service guidance. Prepare now. Check on neighbors and friends and please keep roads clear for emergency and community use.”