CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii -- Runners of all ages came from across the nation to run the steep trails of the Camp Smith 5K Grueler here July 20.
The Grueler boasts sweeping views of Pearl Harbor and the Waianae Mountain Range.
Service members, their families and the general public were welcome to participate in the event, which many military families did. There was also a large number of vacationers from the mainland who signed up. First-time participants were treated to the awe-inspiring views atop Camp Smith’s Bordelon Field.
As runners approached the starting point, some let out gasps of admiration as they looked down upon Ford Island.
“Oh my God, this is so beautiful,” said one participant. Many others lined up on the field’s edge to stretch as they soaked in the horizon.
More than 150 runners took on the challenge of the grueling trail and ascended close to 400 feet over a narrow, rooted and heavily-vegetated terrain trail before they could reach the turnaround. Many of the visiting competitors ran the 5-kilometer race as an added goal during their stay on Oahu.
“It was tough,” said Dallas Giestige, an Ohio vacationer who ran the race to log some miles during his family vacation. “I’m always looking forward to a challenge.”
The cross-country athlete conquered the Grueler in first place with a time of 20 minutes, 47 seconds, with the second-place runner trailing in 39 seconds behind. Giestige took home a Marine memento for his achievement.
Stefy Matsumura, who competed in the 45-to-49 age group, was the top overall female competitor, finishing in 22:30. She made a few playful bows when her name was called for her award.
The Camp Smith 5K Grueler was only one of 12 races in the Commanding Officer’s Fitness Series this year. For on-island competitive fun, there are two triathlons in August. For more information, refer to
www.mccshawaii.com/races/.