By Kimberly Yamaguchi

[email protected]

This past summer, AP Psychology teacher Judy Taparra discovered her passion for running. Upon her return to MHS, she set a Running Club for the faculty into motion.

“I think that it’s exciting that people can motivate each other, and it’s really exciting that people want to do this.  It’s great that their intent is to be here,” explained Taparra.  Each Monday and Wednesday about 33 staff members meet at the John Kauinana Stadium track to prepare for their first event together, the Great Aloha Run.

The staff has been enthusiastic about this new club and many hope to complete the Great Aloha Run this year. “I used to go running and it’s usually easier for me to go with others. It’s typically easier to hold to a commitment when you have others there and it’s more fun when you go with someone,” explained English teacher and club member Curtis Ogi.

For many, this club has given them the opportunity to stay fit and to relax. “It helps promote fitness and camaraderie among the staff and give us an opportunity to take time for ourselves,” said Ogi.

The environment allows each participant to exercise at their own pace and set their own mark. “It’s kind of neat because we make our own smart goals. You can walk. You can come for an hour. It’s kind of open,” said Biology teacher and club member Iris Awa.

The program also allows the staff from all departments to relate with one another. “We’ve got a whole bunch of different personalities. We have a nice age range of participants, male, female. Everybody just goes at their own pace,” explained Ogi.

Taparra’s consistent support and enthusiasm is an added bonus.  “(Taparra) is kind of our motivator. It’s really nice to have someone there cheering you on, and I think without her a lot of people wouldn’t go,” Awa said.

With a strong start, Taparra hopes the club will continue to grow and be a comfortable, relaxing environment for other staff members.