2025 Hawaii Bird Conservation Marathon
The 2025 Hawaii Bird Conservation Marathon takes place on December 21, 2025, in Volcano, Hawaii, a scenic location on the Big Island known for its volcanic landscape and native bird populations. At this time of year, Volcano experiences mild winter conditions with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 60-70°F (15-21°C), though early morning temperatures at the 4,036-foot starting elevation can drop to the mid-50s°F (10-12°C). Participants should expect potential rain showers, as December is part of Hawaii's wetter season, with humidity levels moderate to high. The race features a point-to-point USATF-certified course descending 3,661 feet from Volcano to Kea'au, passing through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and showcasing native Hawaiian rainforest, endemic bird species, and panoramic views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. Runners will experience the unique opportunity to observe Hawaiian honeycreepers and other endemic birds while navigating a predominantly downhill course across paved roads, concluding at Herbert Shipman Park.
What makes this marathon special as a qualifying event?
The Hawaii Bird Conservation Marathon has been selected as a qualifying race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors (WMM) Age Group World Championships in 2026 and 2027. This designation provides participants the opportunity to compete for selection to prestigious international championships based on their performance.
What is the qualifying period for the Abbott WMM Age Group World Championships?
The qualifying period runs from January 1 through December 31, 2025. All marathon times achieved during this calendar year are eligible for consideration in the ranking system.
How do athletes qualify for the Abbott WMM Age Group World Championships?
Athletes can qualify through two pathways:
- →Meeting an Automatic Qualification Time standard for their age group and gender
- →Ranking based on their single fastest marathon time during the qualifying period
How does the Abbott WMM ranking system work?
Points are awarded based on three factors:
- →Age group classification
- →Marathon finish time
- →Gender
Rankings begin on January 1, 2025, and continue through the end of the year, with finishers ranked against others in their respective categories.
What age groups are included in the Abbott WMM ranking system?
The ranking system includes the following age groups:
- →40–44
- →45–49
- →50–54
- →55–59
- →60–64
- →65–69
- →70–74
- →75–79
- →80+
How do I claim my Abbott WMM ranking result?
All official finishers of the Hawaii Bird Conservation Marathon 2025 will automatically receive an Abbott WMM ranking. To claim your result, you must register on the Abbott WMM website at no cost. Registration is required to ensure your result is credited toward your qualification standing.
How much does registration cost?
Registration fees vary based on when you register:
- →$155 (through August 31, 2025)
- →$185 (September 1 – October 31, 2025)
- →$215 (November 1 – December 15, 2025)
What are the registration terms and conditions?
Registration is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Roll overs to future events are not permitted. These terms apply to all registrations regardless of registration date.
When does registration close?
Registration closes on Monday, December 15, 2025, or when the field reaches the cap of 150 runners, whichever occurs first.
What is the course distance and elevation profile?
The marathon course covers the standard 26.2-mile distance with the following specifications:
- →Point-to-point format from Volcano to Kea'au
- →Highest elevation: 4,036 feet
- →Lowest elevation: 375 feet
- →Total elevation drop: 3,661 feet
- →Primarily downhill with a few gently rolling uphill sections at the beginning
Is this course certified?
Yes, the course is USA Track & Field (USATF) certified with the designation HI24003RP, ensuring accurate distance measurement and official recognition for qualifying times.
What was the Boston Marathon qualifier rate for this course?
In 2024, 43.3% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon, indicating this course provides favorable conditions for achieving qualifying standards.
What type of surfaces will runners encounter?
The entire course is on paved roads, with the finish line located on a grass field at Herbert Shipman Park. This surface composition provides consistent footing throughout the race.
What is the course scenery and wildlife viewing opportunity?
The course passes through diverse Hawaiian landscapes including:
- →Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- →Original Hawaiian hapu'u and ʻōhiʻa rainforest
- →Residential and agricultural land
- →Panoramic views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea from the starting area
Runners may observe endemic Hawaiian bird species including Apapane, Hawaii Amakihi, I'iwi (Hawaiian Honeycreepers), Oma'o (Hawaiian Thrush), Hawaii Elepaio (monarch flycatcher), Nene (Hawaiian Goose), and 'Io (Hawaiian Hawk).
What are the start and finish locations?
Start location:
- →In front of Volcano Golf Course
- →99-1621 Pi'imauna Dr, Volcano, HI 96718
Finish location:
- →Herbert Shipman Park
- →16-510 Old Volcano Rd, Keaau, HI 96749
What lighting requirements apply to this race?
Headlamps or flashlights are REQUIRED for all runners until civil twilight (6:26 AM). Wearing bright-colored clothing is recommended for visibility during the early morning darkness. Headlamps can be dropped off at either the first or second water stops, along with any articles of clothing. Mark your race number and name on items for easy identification.
What course features can runners expect during the race?
The first 3 miles traverse the Volcano Golf subdivision before turning onto Highway 11 at the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For the first 18 miles, the course winds through a mixture of native Hawaiian rainforest, residential areas, and agricultural land. After Mile 7.67, the race continues downhill along Highway 11 until Mile 26.09, where runners turn left into Herbert Shipman Park for the final stretch to the grass field finish line.