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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Sports
Over 4,000 long distance runners are expected to be in New Providence later this year, as the island gets ready to host the Bahamas Half Marathon. The race is set for November 22, 2015. During the race, family and friends and runners of all athletic abilities will run two different races. Friends and Family race has a one-mile duration, while the Half Marathon Mile will hold a length of 13.1 miles. It’s the third time the Ministry of Tourism is partnering with Bahamas Roadmasters to hold the event. This year, Hits Endurance, an organization that holds triathlons and running festivals all over the world, is also in partnership with officials to host the event. Atlantis Paradise Island is the host hotel. During the event there will also be a two-day fitness expo, an athlete reception at Atlantis and a pre-runners party. Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Tourism Ellison ‘Tommy’ Thompson said Bahamas Half Marathon comes at a good time. “November is typically a slow time of year and so having 3,000 to 4,000 people to boost our occupancy before thanksgiving boosts our economy. We will also be pushing The Bahamas as one of the premier sports destinations. The Ministry of Tourism is completely behind this event,” he said. Charles Johnson, president of Bahamas Roadmasters, said the organization is proud of the partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Bahamas Half Marathon and Hits Endurance. “Those who have traveled around the world to run in different marathons recognize the potential of long distance running. These marathons are now attracting 40,000 to 50,000 persons. What is happening now with Bahamas Half now is that we are experiencing growth over a short period of time. We did not anticipate partnering with such a prestigious running club in our short growth,” he said. “The potential for the country is enormous. Everyone wants to come to paradise.” The Half Marathon Race will start from Arawak Cay and end on Paradise Island. The first and second local runners will get a cash prize. Registration for the event is now open. Registration prices range from $90 for the Bahamas Half Marathon; $105 for the relay and $30 for the 10K race. The Family and Friends race registration is $30. Locals can register on Bahamashalf.com and international runners can register on Hitsrunning.com.
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