An estimated record-breaking 2,100 participants ran, jogged, walked and wheeled their way through the 2025 UWI St Augustine 19th International Half-Marathon and 5K, helping to raise awareness (and funds) for the Trinidad and Tobago Alzheimer’s Association (AzATT).

A renowned international race, The UWI International Half-Marathon attracts veteran and other long-distance runners seeking to challenge their physical and mental fortitude. The 5K race caters to a far-reaching audience aiming for a fun-filled event.

Registered participants of the half marathon started their 13.1-mile challenge at 5 am, while the 5K started 15 minutes later.

AzATT, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, raises awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in an effort to challenge the stigma around the diseases and provide support to those who live with them. This year’s half-marathon and 5K finisher’s medals included the forget-me-not flower in its design as a tribute to those living with Alzheimer’s and their families.

Kenyan runner Alex Ekesa clinched first place at the half-marathon over 2024 champion Tafari Waldron, who came in second. Nicholas Romany rounded off this year’s top three. In the women’s category of the half-marathon, Aniqah Bailey took first place, Alexia John finished second, and 2024 champion Samantha Shukla came third.

It was a photo finish in the male category as Kerry McLean won with a time of 18:18, and Zidan Hamid followed in a close second with a time of 00:18:19. Ashtin Torres rounded off the top three. Ziya Hosein-Livingstone was the top female runner in the 5K, followed by Angela Curatas in second and Jaliyah Celestine in third place.

Many participants achieved personal best times and took pride in ringing the celebratory bell. Enthusiasts unable to cheer on the runners in-person did so via livestream on Facebook. The UWI’s social media pages gave timely updates.

Some of the sponsors for this year’s marathon included AA Laquis, ACADO Foods, AS Bryden & Sons (Trinidad) Ltd, Bermudez Group Ltd, HADCO Ltd, Holiday Snacks Ltd, Subway, SM Jaleel and Company Ltd, and the National Flour Mills Ltd. Some of the funds generated by the marathon will go to providing essential scholarships for student athletes.