The Tribune

RUNNERS everywhere just got 10,000 more reasons to run Marathon Bahamas next year.

For the first time in its history, the award-winning endurance event will offer a $10,000 jackpot to winners of the marathon and half marathon, in what is being dubbed “Ten for 10.”

Sunshine Insurance (Agents & Brokers) Ltd, which is the lead organiser and sponsor of the event, says it is determined to position Marathon Bahamas as the ‘Best Marathon Experience in the World.’

Since its debut in February 2010, organisers have welcomed thousands of top athletes from around the world. Now, they are hoping the new prize purse will entice even more runners to take part. They are especially encouraging local runners to train, register and participate in order to win this coveted prize purse.

For the marathon, the overall male and female winners will each receive $1,000, the second-place male and female winners will each receive $750 and the third-place male and female winners will each receive $500.

The overall male and female master winner (40 and above) will each receive $500.

The overall male and female Bahamian resident winner will each receive $250.

The male who sets the course record below 2:33:09 will win $500 and the female who sets the course record below 2:54:44 will also win $500.

In the half marathon category, the overall male and female winners will each receive $500, the second-place male and female winners will each receive $300 and the third-place male and female winners will each receive $100.

The overall male and female master winners (40 and above) will each receive $200. The overall male and female Bahamian resident winners will each receive $200.

The male who sets the course record below 1:11:36 in the half marathon will receive $200 and the female who sets the course record below 1:20:34 will receive $200.

Organisers said that there will be no double dipping allowed, barring one person from winning two prizes. The only exception is if a runner sets a course record.

Marathon Bahamas takes place January 20, 2019, one day after the Susan G Komen Bahamas Race for the Cure®. Both events are part of Sunshine Insurance’s popular Race Weekend series.

Marathon Bahamas has been listed as one of the top 50 races in the world outside of the United Kingdom and has won a Tourism Impact Award.

It has been repeatedly praised for its beautiful scenic route and the post-race party.

In years past, Marathon Bahamas’ relays have sold out.

Organisers anticipate a strong response now that a financial component has been added to the upcoming events and are encouraging local residents to register today.

To register, visit www.marathonbahamas.com