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Honolulu Marathon Tradition: Kam Family’s Sweet Malasada Reward

Completing the Honolulu Marathon is not just a physical achievement but also a sweet reward at the finish line, thanks to the efforts of the Kam family from Pearl City.

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Ernest Kam and his family have turned the tradition of providing malasadas to marathon finishers into a labor of love that involves meticulous planning and teamwork.

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The process of creating these delectable treats is no small feat, requiring massive quantities of ingredients like flour, sugar, and oil, all carefully prepared on-site under Ernest Kam’s watchful eye, starting as early as 2 a.m.

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Before the frying process begins, the dough must be at the perfect consistency, with temperature control being crucial to ensure the malasadas turn out just right.

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With a team of 125 volunteers assisting in various tasks such as frying, sugar coating, packing, and distribution, the Kam family ensures that each of the 32,000 malasadas made is a golden, sugary delight for the runners crossing the finish line.

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The sight of runners gratefully receiving their malasadas and the joy it brings them is a rewarding experience for the Kam family and volunteers involved in this tradition.

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For runners, receiving a malasada at the end of the Honolulu Marathon has become a cherished rite of passage, symbolizing the completion of their grueling journey and adding a touch of sweetness to their accomplishment.

Each year, the Kam family’s dedication to providing this treat highlights the spirit of community and generosity that defines the Honolulu Marathon experience, making it more than just a race but a celebration of perseverance and camaraderie.

As runners approach the finish line, the anticipation of receiving a freshly fried malasada serves as a motivating factor, driving them to push through the final stretch and savor the reward that awaits them.

Through the years, the Kam family’s commitment to ensuring that every runner gets to enjoy this sweet treat has become an integral part of the Honolulu Marathon tradition, adding a unique and memorable touch to the event.

From the early morning preparations to the distribution of thousands of malasadas, the Kam family’s dedication to this tradition exemplifies the spirit of aloha and hospitality that characterizes the local community and the marathon itself.

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