The original purpose was to shame Euros away from waltzing around Kailua-Kona during Ironman week in skimpy bun huggers, aka skimpy Speedos. While Ironman visitors have learned some polite sartorial discretion when partaking of Kona's fine shops and cafes, the Underpants Run has evolved into a costume party designed to shock and awe. But once Ironman moved from tolerant indifference to hosting the start and finish in the King Kamehameha parking lot, the Underpants Run lost the last veneer of its outlaw status. And for some reason, the outfits have moved away from the edge.
All photographs © Timothy Carlson
An artful Japanese quartet.
The Underpants mob rounds the corner on Ali'i Drive.
Tall and tan.
Severe Sunburn.
Hammer Man and Touch Toes guy.
Roch Frey and Paul Huddle lead the charge.
Gray's Anatomy Man.
The Grim Reaper.
The perfect view from a higher perch.
Bug eyes.
Hula strong man.
Biggest Loser candidate.
The amazing Mitch Thrower.
Super Woman.
The Odd Couple.
Joyful Japanese.
Overdue.
Sprinting to the finish.
Newton runners.
Kona Wanna Be and Angry Kitty.
