BASSETERRE (8th February, 2016): The St. Kitts Tourism Authority in collaboration with the Ministry Sports recently hosted some of the world’s leading marathoners for a special cruise marathon.
The marathon was part of a cruise adventure dubbed “Southern Caribbean Challenge,” where renowned amateur athletes are participating in six marathons in six destinations over the course of a one-week cruise vacation.
In St. Kitts the 34-member group ran the marathon in the Frigate Bay area. Combined, the group has broken more than 20 Guinness World Records, and have participated in more than 2,500 marathons in more than 100 countries. The youngest competitor on the trip was eight years-old and the oldest was 78.
The group included notable athletes from different nations, such as Juergen Kuhlmey from Germany, who at 78 has ran more than 500 marathons in 57 countries; Tuedon Morgan of Nigeria, a 42-year old mother of four who began running marathons to change her unhealthy lifestyle and now holds two Guinness World Records; and JC Santa Teresa of the Philippines, who is a Guinness World Record holder for completing 21 ultramarathons in consecutive days.
“Supporting this event is in keeping with our goal to further develop sports tourism opportunities in our win island Federation. It also enhances the cruise visitor experience beyond our unique attractions and excursions in St. Kitts. We have a lot to offer all our visitors.” Hon. Lindsay F.P. Grant, Minister of Tourism, International Trade Industry and Commerce.
Southern Caribbean Challenge is organized by Ziyad Rahim, Founder & CEO of Z Adventures. He holds 10 Guinness World Records in long-distance running and is the only athlete in the world to complete a half marathon, marathon and ultra-marathon on all seven continents. In 2015, he took 36 runners from around the world to attempt 7 marathons on 7 continents in the least number of days. The team completed the feat in 10 days and thereby broke 13 Guinness World Records in the process.
“Most the runners are part of Marathon Country Club and Marathon Globetrotters and their aim is tick off as many countries as they can,” Ziyad said. “None of the runners on this adventure are professionals. They are all our everyday folks with a full-time job and families who are keen to attempt challenges that are out of their comfort zones.”