Run Barbados is a proud “Bajan” sporting tradition celebrating its 38th edition in 2020. The three-day road-running event showcases both the beauty and history of the island with its scenic coastal routes that wind through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bridgetown. Runners from all over the world visit to take part in the five races that comprise the Caribbean’s premier running series and enjoy an idyllic island holiday at the same time.
Run Barbados has been on a path of promising growth over the last five years with a growing number of “new” runners joining the faithful followers from an ever-expanding list of countries. Even with the growing numbers the event still retains the personalized feel of a “smaller” running event while presenting a somewhat unique offering with its wide range of races, from Mile to Marathon. The 5K Walk continues to support the Substance Abuse Foundation and its highly significant work.
The continued support of the major sponsor, Cave Shepherd Group of Companies, has allowed for an enhanced experience that rivals races around the world. Highlights include: fabulous finisher medals, professional timing by globally known Sportstats, treasured memories captured by Marathon Photos, Pasta Party by the beach, AIMS-IAAF certified routes, plentiful aid stations, friendly volunteers, music on routes and a Start/Finish area alongside the spectacular white sand beach and crystal waters of Carlisle Bay.
An exciting challenge for those who dare: run three races in three days and earn an extra special medal dependent on the combination of races chosen: “Pride of Barbados Gold”, “Flying Fish Silver” or “Sugar Cane Bronze”.
The ongoing efforts to continuously improve the Run Barbados offering has shown results not just by the growing numbers attending but also through other successes. In 2019 Run Barbados became the first Caribbean running series to be named a Qualifying event for the global age group marathon ranking system by Abbott World Marathon Majors. The repeat attendance by the Canada Running Series group personally led by CRS Race Director Alan Brookes over the last four years also signals a certain level of confidence in the event. The CRS group is usually comprised of a mix of elite and recreational runners and in 2019 included Olympian and Pan Am Gold Medalist (10K) Natasha Wodak.
The 2020 event will offer: SigniaGlobe Mile, Cave Shepherd Visa Credit Card 5K, Colombian Emeralds Intl 10K, the Fortress Half Marathon and the Cave Shepherd Marathon as well as the Ganzee 5K Walk for charity. December 4-6, 2020.
