Nation Funathlon 2021: Participants Overcome Weather Challenges in 8K Fundraiser

Despite the overcast skies, rain and extended route, the participants of this year’s Nation Funathlon persevered to the end.

Marketing executive with the Nation Group Romaine Lovell gave that assessment yesterday at the end of the annual fund-raising and outreach activity.

“The weather was a bit of a damper, but nonetheless, I’m very happy and impressed that the people came out, supported,” Lovell said.

He said that this year about 2 000 people – all who wore green t-shirts – supported the activity by running, walking, riding and skating during the 8K.

Lovell said following last year’s event, they listened to feedback and made some adjustments, which contributed to its success.

“About 2 000 people signed up to support, which is a lot bigger from last year.

“We listened to the feedback and made the adjustments accordingly. I think it was a great success. It was an 8K this year, as opposed to the typical 5K routes, which was a bit longer.

“However people really challenged themselves, and I’m very impressed at the way that they responded,” he added.

The event was held under the theme Let’s Move For A Heart Healthy, Eco Friendly Barbados and proceeds will go towards

the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Future Centre Trust.

Lovell added: “The Nation organises this as a major give-back, so, it’s not a case where we keep any money. Everything that is made, we make sure that is given back to these two charities.

Around 3:30 p.m. participants gathered at the Harold Hoyte & Fred Gollop Media Complex, Fontabelle where they warmed up. By 4 p.m. they were ready for the road.

They left Fontabelle and travelled along The Mighty Grynner Highway to the Frank Worrell Roundabout. They made the third exit onto Black Rock Main Road, made a right turn at Brighton Road, Deacons Farm Road, Exmouth Gap back to the Highway and returned to Fontabelle.

Along the way, there was a trailer truck where Hott 95.3 deejays Daddy Biggz, Indian and Chris Gayle and Grateful Co entertained the walkers.

After everyone returned, several prizes such as hotel stays, vouchers, equipment and groceries were awarded to many of the participants.

Liam Hutchinson was the first cyclist and individual to return, Paula Anne Kelly won first place in the women’s skating category, and Jason Waithe was the first male skater.

The first runner home was Shamel Maynard, and Rodney Blackman was the first walker.

In the Under-12 running category Glory Fraser, 10, took the first prize.

There was also a prize for the oldest participant which went to longtime Nation subscriber June Austin Benjamin, 84.

Benjamin, who goes to the beach every morning, line dances twice a week and exercises three times a week said she was pleased to participate again.

(TG)