It’s time for a run in the Caribbean.
Antigua’s Run in Paradise is offering registrants a special rate through February 28 for the third annual edition of the race.
A record breaking number of runners on the international, regional and national scenes are expected to enter the May 28 event, which will allow them to explore all that the destination has to offer.
The event offers a Half Marathon, 5K race and a new 10K distance.
For 2017, participants can also expect a revised course, which runs from the V.C. Bird International Airport past the American University of Antigua and the Jabberwock Beach.
The course then winds its way through the Paradise View neighborhood and into the heart of St. John’s before finishing on the beach at historic Fort James.
The race, which has featured professional marathon runners–including the 2015 half-marathon winner, Mike Korir, of Kenya and the 2016 winner Elliott Mason, of Antigua–is open to participants of all abilities, including walkers.
Last year’s Run in Paradise attracted participants from ten different countries.
Organizers anticipate that with the addition of a four-day, three-night “Runcation” to Antigua package, which offers airfare and hotel for $699, the event will exceed the 2016 numbers.
International participants are personally greeted by race staff at the airport, and receive free transportation to the race’s host hotel, the Antigua Yacht Club Marina and Resort.
Participants will also be treated to an optional free tour of the island on Saturday, May 27.
Transportation to the start line and back from the finish line is provided for racers staying in the host hotel.
After the race, participants and their families will celebrate their accomplishments at the post-race party held on Pigeon Point Beach, with free food and drinks.
— Dana Niland, CJ Contributor