Coral World, Dive World and a handful of other businesses in the Coki Point and Smith Bay area, are planning a unique triathlon aimed at getting the community actively involved in keeping the island clean.
The event originally slated for Saturday, Oct. 23 has been postponed until Nov. 20.
The race will involve swimming, running or walking, and collecting a bag full of litter.
"We wanted to come up with an activity that would be fun , appeal to people of all ages, and have a positive impact on the environment," said Jeanne Bowen, Diver World owner, who came up with the idea.
The race will begin on Coki Beach, where participants will enter the water and swim a short distance around a set of buoys and then back to shore. Participants will then run or walk one mile on one of two courses to the entrance of Point Pleasant Resort or to the foot of Cassie Hill. At these points they will receive garbage bags that must be filled with litter before reaching the finish line in the Coral World parking lot.
Participants will compete in both male and female categories, and in different age groups ranging from 14 years old and under to over 55 years old. Prizes will be awarded in every category and will include a weekend stay at Point Beach Resort, as well as valuable gifts from many participating businesses. "Everyone will be a winner," explains Allegra Kean of Coral World, "Upon registration each person will receive a free embroidered t-shirt commemorating the day, and will leave knowing they have done a service to the community," she says.
In addition, all participants will receive free snorkel gear rental or free admission to Coral World on the day of the race. The St. Thomas Beverage Company will supply the Virgin Islands' own J'ouvert water for the event.
Details about registration will be forthcoming as they become available.
Interested persons can get more information, by calling 775-1555 ext. 247.
