Underpants Run

Overview

IF IT’S THURSDAY IN KONA, IT’S THE UNDERPANTS RUN!

The UPR was conceived in 1998 by Chris Danahy, Tim Morris, and Paul Huddle as a protest against wearing Speedos in inappropriate places (stores, restaurants, etc.). It has since morphed into a pre-race ice breaker and local fund raiser that has become an integral part of the IRONMAN World Championship event week.

Over the years the Kona UPR has raised over $300,000 for local Hawaiian charities through registration and merchandise donations. We welcome all ages, all genders and all bodies as we celebrate the Aloha spirit that accompanies this incredible one-of-a-kind race week spectacle!

Not able to attend in person, race week, at Kona? No problem! We got you covered with our *Virtual Kona UPR and social media contest!

Donate to Participate

Tell me MORE

This one-of-a-kind event, presented by the IRONMAN Foundation, is a fundraiser for the Hawaiian community. Your donation to participate will support The IRONMAN Foundation and its mission to create positive, tangible change in race communities through grant funding and volunteerism.

Since 2003, The IRONMAN Foundation, in partnership with The IRONMAN Group, has provided more than $55 million in charitable giveback to 10,000 organizations around the world.

Your $25 participation donation secures you an official spot on the Kona UPR start line, as well as the choice of one 2023 Kona UPR official merchandise item (tech tee, BOCO trucker run hat, or Wood Underwear – official event underwear). All items are available on a first come first served basis and available until supplies sell out. Participants will also have the opportunity to purchase additional 2023 Kona UPR merchandise at $25/item.

*For those taking part in the virtual event, we regret not being able to send you an official 2023 Kona UPR merchandise item. We will however be holding a #2023KUPR Social Media contest that will allow for you to showcase your own UPR efforts and compete for some amazing prizes! More info to come, but winners will need to be officially registered in the 2023 Kona UPR virtual race in order to qualify for prizes.

What is the Kona UPR Course?

The Underpants Run (UPR) is a 1.5 – 2 mile (approximately) out and back fun-run on Alii Drive, starting and ending at the parking lot of the King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. Plan for multiple stop-and-go moments while on the run course as spectators and participants alike enjoy photos, cheer stations and comradery.

View a map of the course here.

Who can participate?

All ages, including children, are welcome to participate.
Strollers are allowed.
Well behaved pets on leash are allowed.
Please no bikes or motorcycles while on the course (we will provide official lead vehicles for your safety).

What do I wear?

Plain and simple UNDERWEAR.
Women should have proper tops/covering.
No public nudity allowed!

Please remember, this is a family friendly event!

How do I participate?

Log on to the official Active page and complete your donation to participate in the 2023 UPR.
Encourage your friends to join in on the fun either in-person or virtual!
Choose your race day outfit and start training!
If you are in person for race week, make plans to pick up your race packet and official 2023 UPR merchandise in IRONMAN Village

What is the event schedule?

Packet Pick-Up:

Tuesday, October 10: 12pm – 7pm – IRONMAN Village
Wednesday, October 11:00am – 4pm – IRONMAN Village
Race morning, Thursday October 12: 6:00-7:30am – Race Site

Race Morning, Thursday October 12:

6:00 – 7:30am race day registration/packet pickup – King Kamehameha Hotel back parking lot
7:15am – Official reading of the UPR rules and obligations. Warm Up.
7:30am – Kona UPR begins!
8:15 - 8:30am – Raffle winners announced

Are there awards?

This is not a competitive run, there are no timing chips and there are no award medals. However, by sharing your race day selfies, videos, stories, reels, and more…you will definitely make your momma proud and gain a significant following on your FB/IG profile!

But in all seriousness…the greatest award will be knowing that you were able to make a difference in the race community through The IRONMAN Foundation’s grant and volunteerism givebacks. For that we truly thank you! Mahalo.

Who do I contact?

For any inquiries about 2023 Kona UPR sponsorship, volunteering for the event, or participation, please contact Andrea Fisher, Development Manager, at andrea.fisher@ironman.com