May 11, 2007 – This will be the 23rd anniversary of the Women's Coalition Women Race. St. Croix women and girls from all walks of life will run, walk, talk and have fun as they participate in this event. The race has traditionally drawn over 500 participants making it one of St. Croix's most exciting events. This year's annual race will be held at 4:45 p.m., on Sunday, June 3, in downtown Christiansted.
The event will be a fundraiser for the Women's Coalition and will reflect the community's support of their commitment to end violence against women. It will also reflect women's support for each other. Although this event is open to women and girls only, men are welcome as supporters. Hundreds of sons, fathers, brothers and friends line the streets to cheer on the runners and walkers. The race/walk is a fun afternoon for the whole family with plenty of food and music as part of the after-race activities.
Participants promote awareness of the issues facing women today. They demonstrate an understanding and sympathy toward women who are less fortunate. Some run because they have been victims or in abusive relationships and want to be able to give back to an organization that helps women find peace in their lives. Others join because they believe in the mission of the Women's Coalition –to help all victims 24 hours a day, every day of the year, young and old, male and female.
Schools, organizations, and businesses are encouraged to send teams to participate in the event. Teams that pre-register will be recognized at the race start/finish and will receive a special certificate.
The race follows a 2-mile course that starts at the Scale House on Hospital St. and proceeds east to the D.C. Canagata Ball Park. The route turns at Spring Gut Road and returns on Hospital St. to the Fort on Company St. It will then proceed to Times Square on King St. and back to the Scale House and National Park. Parking along the race route will be limited for the duration of the race. At the finish line there will be music and fun, followed by an awards ceremony at the conclusion of the race. Refreshments will be available for sale.
Participants are encouraged to pre-register. The entry fee is $15 and this includes a T-shirt with this year's new design. Pre-registration assures a T-shirt in the correct size and you will be able to wear it on race day. Registration on race day will be $20. Girls age 14 and under can register for $1, which does not include a T-shirt. Tank tops will be available for an extra charge.
Pre-Registration for this event begins on May 21, at these locations:
· Women's Coalition, No. 7 East St., Christiansted
· Women's Coalition Closet to Closet thrift store, No. 15 Peter's Rest, Christiansted
Special registration will be held on from 10 a.m. to noon, on Saturdays, May 26 and June 2 at:
· Florence Williams Library
· Frederiksted Post Office
· K-Mart, Sunshine Mall
· K-Mart, Sunny Isle
For more information, call 773-9272.
