Runners Give Back Program

We have had such a wonderful time on the islands these past years we have decided to start a new program called Runners Give Back. On each island we visit there will be an opportunity for each runner to give back to the people who have treated us so well.

Barbados

The Barbados Tourism Authority will be printing t shirts to commemorate or 5k run on the island. They will be selling these t shirts at the race and the afternoon swim to raise funds for a new community race clock.

St. Lucia

We are asking runners to bring a used, but in good condition or new pair of running shoes to donate to less fortunate runners on the island. Ali St. Ange a local elite runner and coach will be picking up and helping to distribute the shoes.

Antigua

We are asking runners to bring a book to donate to the Antigua Public Library. There is only one library on Antigua and it has a very limited supply of books.

Tortola

Running for Giselle- This run was originally designed by a local cyclist and runner Chris Ghiorse. Chris did a tremendous job of setting up the run for us last trip. Sadly, shortly after we left Tortola, Chris's baby daughter, Giselle, passed away from a rare genetic metabolic disorder called LCHAD/TFP.  We will be running in memory of Giselle and to raise awareness for to expanded newborn screening (ENS). 

Giselle was transported to the Holtz Children’s Hospital in Miami Hospital from Tortola.  Chris and his wife Victoria spent time at Ronald Macdonald House in Miami while Giselle was being treated.  This amazing facility was less than a 5 minute walk from the Hospital and allowed for Chris and Victoria to be near Giselle throughout her fight, for $10 a night!!!  Ronald MacDonald House (RMH) is an international nonprofit facility set up to help families stay near their children who are undergoing major medical treatment.  Children, who need special care, often come from far a field  RMH provides the social, economical and proximity comforts to help ease these burdens, during an already extremely stressful period.  RMH, Miami is the main facility for Caribbean families with children in long term care. RMH Miami will be set up to accept donations in Giselle’s name.

St. Thomas

The St. Thomas Road Runners have done a fantastic job helping us the last two years. They will be selling race t shirts to raise funds for their club. There will also be a high school steel band playing that will accept donations for their efforts and to support their program.