The fourth edition of the Kwéyòl 5K Run produced a familiar winner on the women’s side, but a new men’s champion for the first time. Over 80 runners and walkers gathered at Reduit on Sunday, October 18, whence they made their way to Pigeon Island under the auspices of the Saint Lucia Athletics Association.
Much better weather than last year meant a slight increase in the number of participants, but Donson Stanley stood head and shoulders Competing for Soufriere Athletics, he outsprinted three-time defending champion Jason Sayers to become king of the road.
Stanley stopped the clock at 16:57. Sayers, seeking his fourth consecutive victory, crossed the line just two seconds behind in 16:59. Gerald Charles of Road Busters Athletics Club completed the men’s podium, taking third place in 18:21.
There was no such upset in the women’s race, where Laura Lynn Limery Bernachi retained her title with a decisive run. The Road Busters runner, who represented Saint Lucia at the CARICOM 10K, recorded a winning time of 21:27. Her clubmate McKayla Olivier took second in 22:42, followed 10 seconds later by Danielle Lambert of Elite Athletics Club in 22:52.
Runners of all ages crossed the finish line on the Pigeon Island Causeway, from an entry list exceeding 100 participants. The field consisted of 53 men and 28 women, with athletes turning out for clubs including Abilene Wildcats, Survivors, Morne Stars Athletics, Elite Athletics, and Road Busters.
The event also drew international participation, including 70-year-old Jacques Giacometti representing Golden Star Athletics of Martinique, Glen Mahabirsingh from Trinidad & Tobago, and Italy’s Edoardo Fauro. Logistical and route support was provided by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and the Saint Lucia Fire Service.
