Run Barbados 2025 concluded in gripping fashion on Sunday, delivering world-class performances, surprise twists and unrelenting competition as elite international athletes and regional stars lit up the island’s iconic race routes.
One of the biggest storylines of the weekend unfolded in the men’s full marathon, where highly accomplished Kenyan long-distance runner and pre-race favorite Alex Ekesa, known for his dominance in Caribbean races like the Run Barbados marathon, heartbreaking disappointment. Ekesa was firmly in control of the race and holding a commanding lead when just about five miles from the finish suffered a back injury, he was forced to pull out, clearing the door for Jamaica’s Jason Baker.
Baker claimed the gold medal in 2:46:31 in a dramatic turn of events that stunned spectators along the course. “This is my first time participating in Run Barbados and it was amazing and it feels great winning the marathon. My coach and I decided to be run conservative and maintain a good heart rate, the first half was easy but it got a bit harder but was able to finish,” Baker told Saint Lucia Daily Post.
In the women’s marathon, Colombia’s Palmenia Raquel delivered a commanding performance, conquering the distance in 2:55:17 to secure top honors on the demanding coastal circuit.
The half marathon proved to be a Colombian showdown, with Sergio Lopez edging compatriot Oscar Acosta after a tense race to the line. Lopez stopped the clock at 1:11:31, while Acosta followed closely in 1:11:56.
Following his victory, Lopez stated, “I felt good running the race, the course is very strong, I am happy because my preparation was very hard. Congratulations to Run Barbados organizers, logistics and organization was amazing.”
Trinidad and Tobago’s Donnell Francis claimed third in 1:13:12, completing yet another strong outing for the regional standout.
Energy peaked during the Sleeping Giant 5K, where fans packed Bay Street for fast finishes and thrilling home-island moments. Venezuela’s Egris Arias held her nerve to take the women’s title in 18:35, fending off a late challenge from Barbadian junior standout Laila McIntyre, whose eye-catching 18:56 thrilled the local crowd. Trinidad and Tobago’s Alexia John secured third place in 19:14.
“I felt a little bit tired because I ran for three days, but I am happy and satisfied that I was able to finish first in the half marathon and the 5K the day before as well. The route was very breezy so that was good for us runners,” said Arias.
“I feel really great because I didn’t push that hard,” John said, adding, “The course was really excellent.”
Redemption was the theme for the men’s 5K as Christopher Mitchell of Trinidad and Tobago returned to Barbados determined to improve on last year’s podium finish, and did just that, storming to victory in 15:28.
Half-marathon silver medalist Oscar Acosta of Colombia continued his outstanding weekend with a runner-up finish in 15:32, while Donnell Francis doubled up yet again, completing the podium in 15:49.
Among local competitors, Luke McIntyre emerged as the top Barbadian finisher in the 5K, crossing the line in 16:1 to earn well-deserved recognition against an elite international field.
From shocking setbacks and breakthrough wins to passionate Caribbean performances, Run Barbados 2025 once again proved why it remains the region’s premier road racing festival.
