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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
Executives of BAF Financial & Insurance (Bahamas) Lmited announced the historic Run for Pompey today, which is expected to be the next big thing in Bahamian tourism and one of the most authentic and meaningful highlights of the year.
The Run For Pompey race will feature a 5km “fun run” for the entire family, a 13mile (21.5km) half marathon, a 26mile (42km )marathon and a grueling 31mile (50km) ultra marathon. It is scheduled to take place October 9th to October 12th, with the actual race occuring on National Heroes Day in George Town, Exuma.
An all-day cook out, live Bahamian entertainment and a Junkanoo Rush in George Town’s Regatta Park are also being planned for National Heroes Day.
BAF, the Title Sponsor of Run For Pompey, is joined by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, GIV Bahamas Inc., Grand Isle Resort & Spa, Bahamian Beverage & Brewing Company, Senor Frogs and BahamasLocal.com.
“It is a rare opportununity to support an event so closely linked with our history and culture,” said I. Chester Cooper, the President and CEO of BAF Financial.
“Pompey is a true national hero and it is only fitting that this new event takes place on National Heroes Day. Despite all the things that divide us, Pompey is a uniting force for freedom and the Bahamian spirit.”
In 1830, Pompey was a 32-year-old slave who led a rebellion against his plantation owner and British Lord, John Rolle. Lord Rolle declared that 77 slaves in Exuma would be transferred to Cat Island against their will. Pompey’s rebellion marked the birth of the freedom fight, and in 1838 slaves were emancipated.
“We are happy to partner with the organizers for the ‘Run For Pompey’ race,” said Greg Rolle, Director of Sports for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
“This event encompasses everything the world already knows about our ‘sun, sand and sea’ brand but more importantly it is a perfect opportunity for us to further distinguish our unique, multiple islands while promoting our sports product, rich history and unparallel culture, all of which makes The Bahamas one of the most sought after destination in the world,” he said.
Pauline Davis-Thompson, Olympic gold medalist and the first Bahamian female IAAF Council Member, was on hand for the big announcement. Davis-Thompson will serve as Patron for the race. Alongside her were representatives from the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.
“I am so pleased to be part of this celebration of Bahamian history and freedom,” she said.
“Ir is also a great opportunity to expose the world to Pompey and one of our most cherished Out Islands. I encourage all Bahamians to join me at the starting line.”
All proceeds from the race will go towards an annual scholarship fund for one deserving student on Exuma. Entry fees range from just $25 to $90, and all participants receive an official Run for Pompey T-shirt and other memorabilia. Children under 16 run for free!
A portion of funds raised will also go towards the Exuma Branch of the Cancer Society.
The events begin on October 9 with the Pompey Banquet for sponsors, government officials and other VIPs, held at Grand Isle Resort & Spa on Emerald Bay. Grand Isle is the official resort partner of Run For Pompey, and it is offering a special discount for all participants. Simply visit www.grandisleresort.com and enter the promo code “POMPEY”.
On October 10, the Exuma Foundation invites Bahamians and tourists alike to tour the 10-acre campus and learn about its charitable works for the community.
Local and international participants can register on Run For Pompey’s new website at www.runforpompey.com or with staff at any BAF location. Follow Run For Pompey on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/runforpompey or Twitter @run4pompey.
© Copyright 2015 by thebahamasweekly.com
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