The 19th CARICOM Road Run/Walk was held today, Sunday, 5 July, in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, bringing together more than 250 professional athletes, amateur competitors and recreational runners representing 15 countries and territories in a celebration of regional unity, health and athletic excellence.
Representing the Commonwealth of Dominica, Curvin Leatham, who was officially sent by the Government of Dominica through the Ministry of Sports, delivered an outstanding performance in the Elite 10K category. Leatham crossed the finish line in an impressive 37:24, securing 7th place overall among 309 athletes.
Dominica also celebrated a strong showing from Raedian Felix, who finished the Local 10K race in 43:25, earning 10th place overall out of 65 athletes, further highlighting the country’s growing presence in regional distance running.
Barbados’ Carlie Robinson claimed the CARICOM Secretary-General’s Trophy and first prize in the Overall Female (Elite 10K Female) category, while Attoya Harvey of Guyana and Alexia John of Trinidad and Tobago secured second and third places, respectively.
In the Overall Male (Elite 10K Male) category, Jamaica’s Garfield Gordon captured the CARICOM Chairman’s Trophy. Odida Parkinson of Guyana finished second, while Kamar Thomas of Antigua and Barbuda claimed third place.
The Road Run/Walk formed part of the pre-event activities for the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, which is being held from 5–8 July in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, under the chairmanship of the Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia and Chair of CARICOM.
Ahead of the award presentation, Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation, the Honourable Kenson Casimir, delivered remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Pierre, emphasizing the importance of the Road Run/Walk in strengthening Caribbean unity.
“This run/walk is more than a race. It is a celebration of health, discipline, unity, community spirit, and Caribbean friendship. It reminds us that CARICOM is not only about the meetings of Heads of Government, policy discussions and regional decisions. CARICOM is about people. It’s about athletes, our families, young people, our communities, and the shared Caribbean identity that connects us across borders. Today, every participant has contributed to that spirit. You are part of something meaningful. You have helped demonstrate the strength, energy and togetherness of our Caribbean Community.”
CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett noted that the Road Run/Walk reflects the Community’s continued commitment to combating the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by promoting active lifestyles and healthy nutrition.
“Across our Community, we have a very high incidence of non-communicable diseases, and we know that healthier lifestyles make it easier for us to manage these conditions and to prevent them. Our numbers are on the high side in terms of the incidence of hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. I encourage everyone in the Community to continue to be active, to exercise and to live active lifestyles.”
The Honourable Kenson Casimir presented the CARICOM Chairman’s Trophy and other top prizes, while Dr Carla Barnett presented the Secretary-General’s Trophy. Also in attendance were CARICOM Deputy Secretary-General Dr Armstrong Alexis; Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development, Alison Drayton; Assistant Secretary-General, Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon; Assistant Secretary-General, Economic Integration, Innovation and Development, Dr Wendell Samuel; along with other CARICOM and Government officials.
Dominica’s strong performances by Curvin Leatham and Raedian Felix added to the spirit of regional excellence showcased throughout the event, underscoring the country’s commitment to sports development and healthy living within the CARICOM community.
