A large number of runners and walkers took part in the 18th Atlantic Medical Insurance Fun Run/Walk last Saturday.
About 1,500 runners and walkers took part in the 18th Atlantic Medical Insurance Fun Run/Walk last Saturday, joining in with the company's premier fundraising effort in support of the Bahamas Diabetic Association and The Cancer Society of The Bahamas. Organizers are hoping that the event will surpass last year's $43,000 donation and continue to raise much-needed awareness.
"This year, we decided to highlight actually recipients. You would have noticed that we had two young ladies who have diabetes participating in the walk. We wanted to put a face to these illnesses," said Anastacia Francis, Director of Operations, Atlantic Medical Insurance.
"On a daily basis we see the ravages of these illnesses (diabetes and cancer), so this event really does mean a lot to us in terms of giving back. Also, the support we're getting from the public means a lot too. We're sending a message of education."
'Super hero' is a title that Mackey Williams wears well. A seasoned veteran of this event (13 years participating), Williams approached the winner's podium to loud cheers and applause. He speed walked across the finish line while pointing one finger in the air, knowing that he was the first walker to cross the finish line.
Anastasia Stitch, a first time participant, took home the overall female trophy for runners and was grateful for the opportunity to support her community.
The third place male finisher was Ryan Bethel. He also won the 40-49 male runners category this year. Bethel sees active living as an answer to health and emotional issues.
"Exercise is what will get rid of anxiety, high blood pressure, etc. You need to exercise. The Bible says that bodily exercise profits the body a little. Whatever that little is, I want that little. Stay healthy and live long," Bethel said.
One of the most energetic groups at the event this year, Jay Fitness Club, took home five trophies in various age categories -- Stephen "Ultraman" Hanna, Demario "Giddymo" Minus and Jay "Ironman" Rolle swept the 30-39 male runners category, finishing first, second and third respectively; Yanelis "Stallion" Lightbourn finished first among the 40-49 year-old female runners, and Tamika "Da Machine" Roberts finished second in that category.
The popular Atlantic Medical event attracted competitive runners, casual walkers, seniors as old as 84-years-old, couples pushing their babies in strollers, fitness enthusiasts of all body types, professionals and politicians just to name a few - all proof that anybody could be a "super hero" for a day.
"We are so thankful for all the 'super heroes' you see out here. We are all able to do something. Just by giving a little, by giving your time and also by going into your wallets - as a lot of people have done this morning - it goes a long way. Small amounts, when we pool them together, will go a long way. We're very thankful for all of the support we've gotten this year," Francis said.
Long before the event started, dozens of participants stretched themselves and paced Montagu Beach in preparation. At 6:10 a.m., participants were led through a quick warm-up session to the sound of Junkanoo music. At 6:30 a.m., it was showtime. Eager runners pressed toward the starting line first, and then walkers followed.
About 17 minutes in, participants began returning to the finish line - some with energy left to cheer for themselves, others too spent to say a word. The last casual walkers trickled in near the 45-minute mark, as organizers raffled prizes from corporate sponsors like Bahamasair, Club One Fitness Centre, Cable Bahamas Limited and Dolphin Encounters. The top three male and female winners in each age category won trophies.
"It's more motivation and it's for a worthy cause. It helps to encourage others, so love what you do. Your health is your greatest asset," said Mackey Williams about the significance of this event and regular exercise.
Stitch, a teacher at Lyford Cay International School, said: "Giving back is vital. It's an essential part of being a part of a community and having an awareness. Incorporating action and service in a very creative manner is something that I am very passionate about. We do it at school. We do it as Bahamians here in the wider community, and its lovely to see such a wide reception here today."
Apart from the awards they won, Jay Fitness Club captured the true team spirit of the day in cheering fellow club members as they crossed the finish line. More of a "fitness family" than a club, members were quick to explain that they are all winners for having finished the course. They also applauded the event organizers commitment to this brand of wellness mixed with community service.
"I think that being a 'super hero' is a day-to-day endeavour for most people. Bahamian women and men work very hard whether it's in the teaching profession or as a doctor - any service industry. Being a 'super hero' has a wide variety of definitions. Many people go unnoticed, but they should take that title," Stitch said.
Organizers are hoping to attract even more participants next year.
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