During a grueling 100-mile race through the rainforests of Oahu, Hawaii, runner Kay Borleis stumbled upon something far more chilling than any physical obstacle she faced.1. As she navigated the treacherous terrain, her pacing partner, Cassie, took a photo that would send shivers down their spines. The image revealed a cloaked figure seemingly walking beside Borleis, a “Night Marcher,” though neither runner recalled anyone being on that stretch of the trail.
The Race of a Lifetime
The HURT 100-Mile race is renowned among ultra-marathoners for its challenging course and conditions. Borleis describes the race as “brutal,” with obstacles ranging from thick mud-caked roots to steep, rocky inclines. Injuries are not uncommon, yet Borleis had never encountered anything quite like what she experienced during that fateful race in January 2019.
As Borleis and Cassie scrolled through the photos taken during the race, they were met with a discovery that left them speechless: a cloaked figure lurking in the background of one of the images. The photo prompted a deeper look into the lore surrounding the area. What she uncovered only added to the mystery and intrigue of her encounter.
The ‘Night Marcher Demon’
Upon further investigation, Borleis discovered a local legend surrounding the area, suggesting that the rainforests are inhabited by the spirits of deceased Hawaiian warriors known as Night Marchers. According to folklore, these guardians roam the land at night, protecting sacred sites with deadly consequences for those who may cross their path.
Borleis’ encounter took social media and online communities by storm. Many were captivated by the eerie photograph, while others expressed skepticism or fear. Unfortunately, Borleis faced backlash from those who doubted her account, leading to accusations and insults. Despite the controversy, Borleis remains steadfast in her belief that she encountered something beyond explanation.
While some may dismiss her encounter as mere superstition, for Borleis, it was a brush with the unknown that she won’t soon forget.2 As she plans her return to the HURT 100 Miler, she remains curious about what other secrets the rainforest may hold.
Encountering the Supernatural
Borleis’ encounter with the Night Marcher adds a layer of intrigue to the already demanding race through the Hawaiian rainforest. As she reflects on the moment captured, Borleis can’t help but wonder about the significance of her brush with the supernatural. Was it merely a trick of the light, or did she truly cross paths with a Night Marcher, as local legend suggests?3
As she prepares to return to the scene of her Night Marcher encounter and complete the HURT 100-Mile race, Borleis carries with her the memory of that moment in the rainforest. For her, the experience is as a reminder of the mysteries that lie in the natural world and the enduring power of folklore and legend. As she sets out once again to conquer the course, Borleis remains vigilant, ever aware of the possibility that she may once again cross paths with the supernatural.