An American based organization “Horse Shows in the Sun” (HITS) announced its partnership with Bahamas Roadmasters on Tuesday to host The Bahamas Half Marathon/10K and HITS Running Festivals Half Marathon Championships.
The event which is slated for November 22 and it will not only bring international attention, but yield economic growth for the Bahamian economy.
Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Tourism Ellison Tommy Thompson said during a press conference at the Ministry of Tourism that “the event comes at a really good time as November is still relatively slow.”
“To have 3,000 or 4,000 people come in for the actual race, they will be bringing friends and family,” he said.
“It will be a great boost to the economy and the fact that we will also be pushing sports tourism in The Bahamas, this event will actually bring us that profile that we are gathered in the region as one of the premium spots tourism destinations.”
Charles Johnson President of Bahamas Roadmasters also said he is extremely pleased with the international partnership.
“The Bahamas Half Team and Bahamas Roadmasters are eagerly looking forward to the 201 race in particular because of the partnership with HITS and the unlimited growth potential this new joint venture brings to the race,” said Johnson.
“Participants can expect a first class racing experience with all of the amenities of the big international events, plus the added bonus of a paradise setting.”
The Bahamas Roadmasters Running Club (BRRC) is a non-profit group that promotes as well the sport of long distance running and prepare runners to participate in various marathons.
While it is too soon to comment on international registration numbers, officials say they remain confident.
The event will feature the traditional Bahamas Half and 10K distance race including a one mile friends and family component the weekend before.
Registration for the race opens on May 20, 2015 and proceeds from the marathon will benefit the Bahamas Special Olympics and other local charities.
HITS Inc. is a special events management company that is primarily focused on producing endurance sports events and hunter/jumper horse shows.
