The Honolulu Marathon, one of the largest and most popular marathons in the United States, has always been a destination event that mixes tropical atmosphere with pure racing passion. Held annually in December in scenic Honolulu, Hawaii, the marathon draws runners from across the U.S., Japan, and dozens of other countries, with tens of thousands of participants taking on the iconic 26.2-mile course each year.
But for 2025, organizers–in partnership with Japanese goldsmith SGC of Japan–have added an extra layer of prestige to the race that no other marathon in the world can match: the champion’s medal for the top finishers is being crafted entirely from pure gold. It’s a bold move that raises the stakes for elite competitors and adds a shiny new narrative to one of the sport’s most beloved distance events.
Pure Gold Medal: What Makes This Year Unique
Every runner who crosses the finish line in Honolulu receives a finisher medal symbolizing their achievement–a keepsake that celebrates months of training and the accomplishment of completing a popular marathon. But in 2025, the marathon’s winners will receive something truly extraordinary: a pure gold medal worth roughly $27,000 at current market prices.
This special medal design is based on the traditional finisher medal, featuring a windswept runner and the iconic Diamond Head volcanic crater, but for the champion it’s made entirely from gold–a first in the race’s long history. That golden trophy comes on top of a $25,000 first-place prize plus time bonuses for elite athletes, meaning the winners are literally racing for gold in more ways than one.
“Our marathon family is honored to welcome SGC. Their dedication to excellence mirrors the spirit of our event. These medals aren’t just rewards; they’re a celebration of every runner’s journey,” Honolulu Marathon CEO, Jim Barahal, said.
Organizers say the golden medal underscores the event’s commitment to celebrating excellence and adds another level of incentive for elite runners who already respect Honolulu’s challenging climate, early humidity, and unique out-and-back course that takes athletes past Waikiki Beach and up toward Hawaii Kai before returning toward the finish at Kapi’olani Park.
What Runners Can Expect on Race Day
The Honolulu Marathon begins early. At 5:00 AM on race morning, thousands of runners launch into action under a fireworks display on Ala Moana Boulevard, launching the scenic, sun-drenched route. Along the way, participants are greeted with ocean views, Waikiki panoramas, and a lovingly supportive local crowd–elements that make this race a “bucket list” destination for many runners.
Unlike many major marathons, Honolulu places no qualifying standards or time limits on entrants. Walkers and first-timers are welcome to participate alongside elite competitors, and the finish line remains open until the last runner completes the course. This inclusive format contributes to the event’s laid-back reputation and embodies the Hawaiian theme of running “your own race.”
Post-race festivities in Kapi’olani Park offer runners and supporters a true celebration, with fresh malasadas (a local sweet treat) bananas, refreshments, and live finish-line video playback on giant screens. Finishers pick up shirts and medals at the finish area before joining family and friends to soak in the victory.
Elite Competition and the Iconic Course
While the Honolulu Marathon is beloved by recreational runners, the elite field often features international stars looking to make their mark on a unique course. In 2025, defending champions like Cynthia Limo and Yemane Haileselassie are expected to return, aiming to tackle the heat, humidity, and rolling terrain that define this Pacific-coast race.
Course records, 2:08:00 for men and 2:22:15 for women, were set by Titus Ekiru and Brigid Kosgei respectively, proving that fast times are possible when weather conditions cooperate. Yet the unpredictable tropical climate and the long out-and-back route mean that race strategy, hydration, and pacing are critical components for success.
At the elite level, competition this year is shaping up to be deeper than it has been since the pandemic, with a larger field of runners training at altitude and bringing international experience to Honolulu. For those front-of-the-pack athletes, the promise of a pure gold medal adds a rare psychological edge to the competitive narrative.
A Destination Experience
Beyond the marathon itself, the Honolulu Marathon weekend is packed with events that celebrate running and Hawaiian culture. From the Honolulu Marathon Expo–where fans can see the solid gold winners’ medals up close–to torch lighting ceremonies and cultural performances, the event transforms the city into a running festival.
The marathon’s inclusivity, lack of entry barriers, and year-end timing make it a hugely popular choice not only for competitive athletes but also for first-timers and seasoned marathoners seeking a memorable way to cap their running year. Whether participants are chasing a personal best, supporting a charitable cause, or simply soaking in the Aloha spirit, the Honolulu Marathon continues to stand out on the global calendar.
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