The West End 2 Mile Run held recently saw standout performances from Jermaine Rickets and Katrina Lindsay, who emerged as the male and female champions, respectively, among a field of 43 participants.
Jermaine Ricketts delivered an exceptional performance, winning the male category and establishing a new course record with a time of 11:04.42. Rickets surpassed the previous record of 11:24.70, set by Jonathan Lynch in 2022, who finished second this year.
Rickets, who had faced off with reigning two-time champion Lynch before, made his mark after an early lead by Lynch. However, his year of consistent distance running proved decisive. Julius Farley rounded off the podium in third place, clocking 12:07.90.
“Just do your best and have fun,” Rickets advised aspiring distance runners post-race. He added, “Breaking the record wasn’t my aim this morning; I just wanted to run a fast race.”
Lindsay Claims Female Crown
In the female category, Katrina Lindsay, the current female record holder, continued her dominance with a winning time of 12:31.65. Rosmond Johnson finished second at 15:33.89, while Rachel Smith secured third place with a time of 17:40.30.
Lindsay shared her race strategy, saying, “My first objective is always to get to the half-way point. Once done, I focus on my return, this is where I push and remind myself that the end is near.”
Community and Leadership Support
First District Representative and Junior Minister for Agriculture, Dr. the Hon. Karl Dawson, attended the event and praised the participants for their competitive spirit and focus on fitness.
“Events like this provide an ideal platform for living healthy lifestyles,” Hon. Dawson said, while pledging to encourage greater community involvement.
Strong Turnout and Future Growth
Race organizer Steve Augustine expressed satisfaction with the turnout and extended gratitude to participants, volunteers, race officials, and the RVIPF for their support.
“We anticipate even greater participation in future years,” Augustine remarked.
All participants received medals and event t-shirts, made possible by KennyTees.