Visitors from near and far treked to the island this month to take part in Run Barbados, which consists of 3 well organised events spread out over 3 days. This year’s event was successful as alway and consisted of the following run’s:

Run: 1
Date: 7 December 2012 | Event: FUN Mile and International Friendship Run | Start point: St. Lawrence Gap.

Run: 2
Date: 8 December 2012 | Event: Run Barbados 3k & 10K| Start point: Bay Street Esplanade, Bridgetown.

Run: 3
Date: 9 December 2012 | Event: Half marathon | Start point: Bay Street Esplanade, Bridgetown.

Running has become a very popular sport in Barbados in recent years and apart from Run Barbados, there are a several one-day running events throughout the year here.

Interview with Jessica Gale…

We asked Jessica Gale, an avid runner and professional fitness trainer by day, to give us a personal insight into why she started running…

When did you start running?

I think it was early 2010. Shortly after I had my daughter, Isabella.

Why did you choose running?

Isabella’s aunt, and my close friend Shona Lashley, was competing in her first 10 k, in the 2009 December Run Barbados series. It looked like a rewarding challenge and such an achievement to those participating. The competitors all seemed so accomplished crossing the finish line. I decided then that I was going to start running with her in the new year and that I would run the same 10 k at the end of that year. Although it ended up being more like 21 k! Lol

How often do you run?

Um, depends on the time if year but usually at least 2 to 3 road runs a week and then I will frequent the treadmill I have in my gym, but more for shorter runs or sprint work.

Do you have a group that you run with or do you prefer to run alone?

It’s more fun and challenging with others so we have a nice group of girls that run together. It’s a great way to make new friends as you share a common goal and interest and our circle is always expanding and changing. But sometimes it’s nice to run alone and I do that too.

Where do you normally run?

All over! Wherever I can or we feel it is safe to.

How long did it take for you to get accustomed to running long distances?

My body adapts to exercise pretty well so not long. I can’t really remember…

Any tips for people who want to get into running but don’t think they have the endurance?

Look up a program online, like “how too run your first 5 k” And stick to it. You work up to it day by day. I promise you, it’s addictive and just as those runner’s faces promised — so rewarding!

So, why Run?

A very wise man named George Sheehan said, “There are as many reasons for running as there are days in the year.” Here are a few of them.

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