"Buy It.”
That was the two-word response that Melissa Braswell, co-owner of Big Island Running Company, received from her husband, Jason Braswell when she emailed him a link to the website where the running store was listed for sale. At the time, the couple was living in Chicago and working as attorneys.
Although they had visited Hawai’i frequently over the years and daydreamed about calling it home, it wasn’t until 2009 that the Braswells were ready to make a career change.
“One day, I was searching BizBuySell for businesses for sale and saw the running store listed. Since we were both runners, it made perfect sense,” says Melissa of the unanimous decision to purchase Big Island Running Company, which had been in business for around six years before it hit the market. “I emailed Jason the link, he replied ‘Buy It,’ and a week later we were on our way to Kona to look at the store!”
On their flight home from Kona, Jason was so inspired by the prospect of owning the running company that he grabbed an airline napkin and drew the first sketch of the Run Big logo that has become so iconic.
“The Run Big and Run Aloha lines of merchandise were our first mark on the store,” Melissa says. “Now here we are celebrating our 15th anniversary of owning Big Island Running Company.” By September of 2009, Jason had quit his legal job, said goodbye to the Windy City, and headed to Hawai’i to take over the shop. While buying the running company was the Braswells’ ticket to the Big Island, their purpose in stepping up to the helm of the shop was much bigger.
“From the beginning, our intention was to make Big Island Running Company a center for the community. Our mission has always been to support and encourage a healthy, happy, and active lifestyle, and do it with aloha,” Melissa shares. “We can help runners at all stages of their journey, from beginners to seasoned marathoners.”
Not only is the shop a solution-oriented resource for anyone who has foot problems, including walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and especially those who are on their feet all day for work, but it’s also the backdrop for the start and finish of the 100% Pure Kona Coffee 5k and Half Marathon, and has been since 2015. That was the year Jon Kunitake decided to bring a race back to Kona’s Ali’i Drive.
“We created a non-profit, Big Island Race Events, and Jon and I started the race. I was the race director for the first two years before Keely McGhee took over the role in 2017. And naturally, Big Island Running Company stayed on as a sponsor, ” says Melissa. “The 100% Pure Kona Coffee races keep getting better each year, and I’m always excited to see what new ideas Keely has in store.”
Melissa also looks forward to talking to all of the participants and spectators on race day, and hearing stories from runners who she might not see on a regular basis. She adds that: “It’s also special to hear the visitors who run the race talk about what a great experience it was!”
With the exception of one Pure Kona Coffee Half, Melissa is typically too busy helping out on race day to toe the line herself. “The year I did it, I was able to see tons of friends and customers out on the course. It’s such a great hometown race! But the best part of the race that year was having my daughter, Emily, hand me my mug at the finish line,” Melissa shares.
Every year, a few of Big Island Running Company’s employees pin a bib on come race morning. In fact, employee Nathan Coates finished fourth in the half marathon in 2023. Pretty impressive for someone running his first half!
Melissa and the rest of the running company staff agree that the opportunity to run on Ali’i Drive when it’s partially closed to vehicles is one of the best parts of the race. One of the most challenging parts of the half marathon, however, is mile 8. “Then the hardest (or at least hilliest) part is over! Definitely prepare with some hill training, though!”
For anyone training for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half, Melissa also recommends dialing in your nutrition, whether that’s training with gels, gummies, salt tablets, or electrolyte drinks. “With our hot and humid climate, having the right nutrition is key on race day.”
Fortunately, Big Island Running Company can help you stock up on your race day essentials if you happen to travel to Kona for Pure Kona Coffee and realize you forgot your fuel. While you’re at it, grab some Run Big or Run Aloha apparel to add to (or start) your collection!
Just think, if the Braswells had never decided to “Buy It,” we wouldn’t be able to Run Big! If you’re ready to experience the scenery and energy of Ali’i Drive and Run Aloha this November 9th, register now!