XTERRA Trail Run Worlds - Countdown is On

The XTERRA Trail Run World Championship is just 16 days away, which means there are still 15 days to register for the rare opportunity to run the picturesque trails at Kualoa Ranch.

More than 900 runners from around the world have already entered the event, scheduled for Dec. 5 at Kualoa Ranch.

The trails at Kualoa Ranch are normally closed to the public, so even the home-state Hawaii runners are giving thanks at this time of year for the chance to experience the unique course.

"If you live in Hawaii or outside Hawaii, I think it's one of those things you just have to do if you get the chance," said Christian Friis, one of Hawaii's top trail runners. "The opportunity to see that whole area of the island is awesome. If you think about it, that's the real Hawaii."

The trails at Kualoa cross through open pastures, shallow streams, rainforest-like covered sections, and steep ridgelines that overlook the famous Hawaii beaches.

Amy Eck, one of Hawaii's top female runners, added: "Kualoa Ranch is one of the most beautiful places to run on Earth. Every time you start to think it is hard, you look up and are amazed! Take advantage of this rare opportunity to run in Ka'a'wa Valley, where movies and adventures are made."

Indeed, the beauty of Kualoa Ranch has been on public display as the backdrop for the hit television series LOST, as well as hit movies such as Godzilla, Jurassic Park and 50 First Dates.

Although the beautiful sights can be distracting, Friis cautioned that the course can also be difficult, with nearly 3,000 feet of various climbs and descents.

"It's one of the best cross country courses you can find," he said. "It has a lot of different challenges."

The 21-kilometer trail will serve as the championship course. Max King of Oregon is the two-time defending XTERRA Trail Run world champion, and is again considered the favorite this year.

There are also separate 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer courses for less-experienced trail runners.

Online entries are still open at www.xterratrailrun.com.

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