Three decades have passed since the prestigious Run Barbados series was conceptualized, by locals: Sir Austin Sealy and Carl Bayley. This exciting event has evolved into one of the premier sporting attractions on the island with a festive atmosphere and a spirit of camaraderie that epitomizes the theme: “Come for the Run, Stay for the Fun!”
A Unique Experience
The choice of races around the world is endless but the Run Barbados event has distinguishing characteristics that can provide the experience of a lifetime. The friendly local culture, the sheer beauty of the island and the marathon course that is both scenic and historic. The start and finish of the “out and back” mostly flat route are at the picturesque Bay Street Esplanade, opposite the Prime Minister's office and overlooking the magnificent Carlisle Bay. The course then winds its way along the streets of Bridgetown, a historic seaport with the distinctive honour of being part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Runners run under the Independence Arch and over the Chamberlain Bridge (dates back to 1865) with wonderful views of the Parliament Buildings, completed in 1873 and housing the third oldest parliament in the Commonwealth. As the Bridge is left behind runners will glimpse the statue of Admiral Lord Nelson, a statue erected in 1813 which pre-dates the Nelson's Column in London by nearly 30 years.
The scenic route then continues along the Careenage adjacent to the Bridgetown Boardwalk. The marathon and half-marathon route continue along the west coast where spectacular vistas of the Caribbean Sea can be enjoyed from various vantage points. Cricket fans will enjoy the view of
Kensington Oval with the statue of Sir Garfield Sobers batting out front. The returning route through Bridgetown travels across the Charles Duncan O'Neal Bridge with views of Independence Square and heads back to Bay Street for the finish.
The 10 km course enjoys the same start/finish line in Bay Street with a wonderful tour of iconic
Bridgetown landmarks along the route.