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Sports Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM


Run for Pompey rescheduled for October 29
By Diane Phillips & Associates
Oct 16, 2016 - 8:06:35 AM

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The second annual Run for Pompey originally set for Georgetown, Exuma October 8 has been rescheduled for October 29.

“We made a decision on October 2 to reschedule because of the threat of Hurricane Matthew, not knowing what the impact of the storm would be on The Bahamas,” said Jeff Todd, race founder and Director of Communications for GIV Bahamas, the outreach arm of Grand Isle Villas. “Fortunately for Grand Isle, which is the host hotel, we are absolutely fine and in fact, we are open today. Everything has fallen into place for the event to be rescheduled for the end of this month, October 29. All of our sponsors have been notified, all of the entrants who are coming in from abroad are being notified, the official timing company was able to make it which is critical for the quality of the events and our event patron Pauline Thompson Davis was able to be with us that day. Now we will have more reason than ever to enjoy being together in a healthy, wholesome family environment with friends.”

Todd said organizers were also hoping that the rescheduled event would be a mini-boost to the Exuma economy following the closing of Sandals on property within walking distance of Grand Isle.

Sandals, the luxury all-inclusive resort, was not so fortunate as Grand Isle Villas. Interior rooms built along breezeways and halls suffered extensive damage when windows blew out. There was roof damage and flooding. Guests who had been transferred to that resort when Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau had to close for repairs were being re-routed to other Sandals.

“We feel really bad about what happened to Sandals Emerald Bay,” said Todd, “and unfortunately Air Canada has suspended direct flights possibly until they re-open December 15, but those flying in from Atlanta or Florida will be fine and we hope to have a good turn-out for the Run for Pompey.”

The majority of participants are expected to come from within The Bahamas.
“Our hearts go out to all the people whose lives were impacted by Hurricane Matthew,” Todd said. “The images, especially of North Andros and Grand Bahama, are heartbreaking. We hope that Run for Pompey which will still be in the month of Heroes Day will bring a bit of light relief and pleasure reminding us all of the beauty of The Bahamas.”

The race is named in honour of a slave who became a national hero, risking his life to keep enslaved families together. Held for the first time last year, the Run for Pompey attracted nearly 200 participants, including many local schoolchildren.

“This year’s race and all the related activities were shaping up to be really exciting,” said Todd. “We had entries from Africa and one from Australia as well as Canada, the U.K. and the U.S., but what was really special was the enthusiasm and energy of the local Exuma community. Run for Pompey is shaping up to be one of the signature events on the Exuma calendar.” When the Run is rescheduled, participants will have a choice of six options, a 2k ‘George Town Dash’ for youngsters or anyone who wants to take part, a 5k run/walk presented by BAF Financial with proceeds to go to cancer research, 10k half marathon for runners 16 and older, 42k marathon for 18 and older and a 50k ultra marathon, also for those 18 and older. The 50k is the only ultra-marathon in The Bahamas. All races are professionally timed. More than a dozen companies are sponsoring. They include BAF, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, GIV (charitable foundation) Grand Isle Villas, Sands Truly Bahamian Beer, Caribbean Bottling, supplier of Dasani water, Bahamas Watch Exchange, Catch-a-Fire, Chat ‘n’ Chill, Ty’s Sunset Bar & Grill, BahamasLocal, Diane Phillips & Associates, Sports 4 and SuperClubs Breezes. Several sponsors are offering prizes for participants, including experiences at Breezes, Grand Isle and a $1,200 watch from Bahamas Watch Exchange. For further updates or to register, check www.runforpompey.com.
 

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