The Tribune

WHEN the coronavirus pandemic struck at the beginning of 2020, governments in many countries, including The Bahamas, responded with frequent lockdowns which brought sporting events around the world to a screeching halt.

In recent months, things have begun to turn around as countries are recording lower numbers of COVID-19 infections and hospitalisations. “This is good news for the sport of long distance running with organisers staging virtual races and many now reverting to in-person race events.

The Boston Marathon recently held its 2021 marathon in a virtual format attracting tens of thousands of runners around the world. “Among them were over 30 members of Bahamas Roadmasters Running Club (BRRC), led by its president, Marcel “Bop” Major, who came together following 18 weeks of intense training to “chase the unicorn”, the theme for the 2021 race.

Said Major. “It’s about time that this popular past-time of distance running which serves as an outlet for physical and mental fitness be allowed to resume.”

According to Major, road races commonly referred to as “fun-run/walk” events are effective means of raising funds to support local charities while benefitting the overall health of participants.

“Longer distance races like marathons and half marathons are important elements of the sports tourism product, attracting big spending stop-over visitors,” said Major. Accordng to a press release, Bahamas Roadmasters Running Club was founded in 1990 to support running enthusiasts and to advance the sport of long distance running in the country. “BRRC hosts two popular annual signature events, The Midnight Madness Fun Run/Walk and Bahamas Half, 5 & 10K.

“Part proceeds from these events are donated to local charities,” said the release.