By:Curtis Morton
Lester Blackett, President of the NAAA, confirmed on Monday 5th September that the Independence road run 2016, is definitely on.
However, Blackett was quick to point out that the event will not be held on Heroes’ day this year, but instead, will be held on the afternoon prior, Thursday 15th September.
He noted that it is hoped that the change will attract the participation of more school children.
The event is set to commence at 4 pm in front of the Nevis Tourism Authority Building, next to the Post office and the athletes will then proceed down the Samuel Hunkins drive, along the island’s main road and the senior athletes will turn back at the turnabout at Cotton Ground for the 10k run, while the athletes aged under 13, will turn back at the TDC roundabout, for the 3k run.
The race will climax opposite the Nevis Tourism Authority building.
Water stations will be strategically placed at approximately every 2K (TDC, Four Seasons, Lowlands, Cotton Ground) with markings every kilometer.
Traffic restrictions/controls will be applied to selected roads in Charlestown and Police will escort lead runners. Additionally, Participants/Officials will assemble opposite the Tourism building, Charlestown by 3:30pm and the event will start at 4.00 pm. St. Kitts athletes are expected to use available transport between Nevis & St. Kitts.
The Presentation ceremony will be held in front of the Tourism Authority building in Charlestown, starting at approximately 5:30 p.m.
Blackett further indicated that this year’s event will be held in honour of multiple winner of the 10 k event, Timoy Henry out of St. Kitts, who was unfortunately shot on 27 June 2016. He requires URGENT treatment which would allow him to return to Full Health and to his love (Track and specifically Road Running). A Registration Fee of $20 for participants 18 years and over will be collected and the full amount contributed to facilitate his treatment and recovery.
Persons are also encouraged to make a contribution to this worthy cause, even if they are not planning to participate and interested persons who are not interested in running the route are also encouraged to walk in order to enhance their overall fitness and health.
Registration forms are available at the Youth and Sports department and at the Secondary and Primary schools. The registration deadline is Wednesday 14th September at 3.30 pm. Persons 18 years and over will pay a registration fee of $20.00 EC.
Incentives
EC$ 10,000+ in Cash/Awards (1st 3 places per class & overall male & female winners):
Trophies (1st) – Overall winners to be presented with an additional EC$ 200.
Trophies: 2nd and 3rd places
Trophy: Oldest & youngest Male/Female
U18+ EC 1st $500 / 2nd-$300 / 3rd-$100
U-13: EC 1st-$300 / 2nd-$200 / 3rd-$100 (U-13 $ presented to the athlete’s school)