These are the words I’d use to describe this year’s Run Barbados Marathon weekend, which I had the privilege to be a part of on the scenic island, which is world-renowned for its festive atmosphere and spirit of camaraderie.
A staple on Barbados’ calendar of events since its inception in 1983, the fixture sewn in the fabric of the Bajan culture celebrated its 40th edition from December 8–10.
The Run Barbados Marathon weekend, which has distinguishing characteristics that will leave lifelong memories, took the runners, casual and professional, through some of the island’s most historical landmarks.
It was truly a unique three-day experience filled with fun, food, and entertainment for the entire family.
On Day One, Trinidad’s Nicholas Romany kicked off his Run Barbados campaign in fine style, soloing to victory in the PWC Fun Mile staged on the outer circuit of the Garrison Savannah.
In the first event of the prestigious weekend of activities, Romany trotted to victory in 4:38s for the fixture, which attracted 678 runners, some from as far as the United Kingdom.
The 29-year-old, who has been road racing for the past seven years, stated post-race that it is his first time competing in the ‘Land of the Flying Fish’ and he had ‘fun’ during the event.
Romany, who won $US250 for his heroics, also competed and won the 10k and the half marathon events, completing an unprecedented ‘Triple Crown’.
The Run Barbados Marathon weekend then switched to the scenic East Coast of the island for the staging of the Casuarina 10K, which is one of the oldest races in the Caribbean, and the popular Sleeping Giant 5K race.
Both races started at Barclay’s Park in St. Andrew and took the runners on a journey through some of the island’s most beautiful landmarks.
When the dust settled, Romany crossed the finish line first on the tree-lined highway. Alex Ekesa finished second, while Darren Matthews completed the podium.
Romany completed the event in 32:55s. Ekesa ended three seconds behind, while Matthews finished in a time of 34:49 among the 168 starters. The top three females were Leidy Lozano (36:53s), Herimiarintsoa Felix (37:34s), and Carlie Robinson (43:42s).
The event received high praise for those who came specifically for athletic glory, fitness, and health benefits, and for those who just participated for the sake of it because it appeared to be a fun thing to do. Said Romany in his song ‘Trini’ accent, “I would rate Run Barbados very high because the organisation was good and everything was on point.”
He added, “They have a lot of people from different countries here, and while they are here, they are seeing the attractions, staying in hotels, and everything they would have experienced they would have gone back and shared with their families, and that would let them want to come back and bring their families.”
In the big finale, Ekesa ran off with his third consecutive Run Barbados Marathon title.
Adding to his triumphs in 2019 and 2022, Ekesa returned to a familiar stomping ground to cross the finish line at Barclays Park in two hours, 35 minutes, and 52 seconds (2:35:52).
Completing the podium was Brian Morseman of the USA, who finished second (2:38:17), and Vega Lagos (3:10:29) was third.
In a post-race interview with this daily, Ekesa, who also finished second in the 10K race a day earlier, stated that he was grateful for the opportunity given by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) to defend his marathon title.
The globetrotting athlete promised to return to once again defend his title next year.
Before the competitive running, members of the international media and influencers were flown in, and accommodation was provided with all expenses paid, which gave a true taste of Bajan hospitality, culture, and cuisine.
We stayed at the world-famous Crane Resort and Sam Lord’s Castle in St. Phillips.
During our stay, we were taken to Harrison’s Cave, treated to dinner at Champer’s Restaurant, had a yoga session, tasted the renowned Mount Gay Rum, and some of us soaked up the Bajan sun topless on the white, sandy beaches. It was truly an experience of a lifetime that will forever be etched in our memories.
