Running and Walking
Top runners flock to the island in January for the Bermuda International Race Weekend, which includes a marathon and 10-km races. Many of the difficulties that cyclists face in Bermuda—hills, traffic, and wind—also confront runners. Be careful of traffic when walking or running along Bermuda's narrow roads—most don't have shoulders.
Runners who favor firm pavement are happiest along the Railway Trail , a former train route, one of the most peaceful stretches of road in Bermuda.
If you like running on sand, head for the south shore beaches . The trails through the South Shore Park are relatively firm. A large number of serious runners can be seen on Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach early in the morning and after 5 pm. Another good beach for running is half-mile-long Warwick Long Bay, the island's longest uninterrupted stretch of sand. The sand is softer here than at Horseshoe and Elbow, so it's difficult to get good footing, particularly at high tide. By using South Shore Park trails to skirt the coral bluffs, you can create a route that connects several beaches. Note that the trails can be winding and uneven in places.
Bermuda Half Marathon Derby. Held on Bermuda Day (May 24), a public holiday, the race brings thousands of locals and visitors, who line the edges of the 13.1-mile (21-km) course. Even if you aren't a runner, it's great fun to watch. There's also the annual Heritage Day parade, complete with Gombeys, baton twirlers, floats, and musicians, in Hamilton afterward. The procession starts at 1:30 pm from Bernard Park, finishing on Front Street several hours later. 441/737–0046; www.bermudamarathon.bm.
Bermuda Triathlons. The Bermuda Triathlon Association holds these sporting events about once a month from April to October. The events are of various lengths and combine a swim, a cycling leg, and a run. The BTA also hosts sprint series throughout summer months. Many of the events take place at Clearwater Beach in St. David's or at Harrington Sound Dock. www.bermudatriathlon.com.
International Race Weekend. Held in mid-January, there's some serious competition for winning these races; they attract world-class distance runners from countries around the world, but they're open to everyone. The weekend event begins with the Front Street mile race on Friday night, continues with a 10k walk and run on Saturday, and finishes with the marathon on Sunday. Many ambitious participants aim to get three medals in three days! 441/737–8850; www.bermudaraceweekend.com.
Mid Atlantic Athletic Club Races. This club hosts many middle- to long-distance running events at various locations across the island throughout the year. The main attraction is the annual Fairmont to Fairmont, a 7.2-mile (11.6-km) race that challenges participants to make the trek from the Hamilton Princess (managed by Fairmont) to the Fairmont Southampton. The Renaissance 10 Miler and Team Challenge in March and the Fidelity 5k in June are also popular. 441/239–4803; www.maac.bm.
