We hadn’t forgotten about the smaller scale, not by a long shot.
Yesterday we ran off with the Aranguez Community Pop-Up 5K 2026, which was held at – you guessed it – the Aranguez Savannah in the waning late-afternoon sun.Â
Since the Carnival break, things ramped up to 11 with some heavy hitters for those with the running itch. We’re talking about the Midnight 10K Ariapita, the Midnight Half Marathon, as well as the recent Colonel’s 5K and 1K to name a few.
The latter of which set a Bafasports record as over 2500 runners came out for their chicken – and to run, of course. White tuxes, cash prizes, and savannah grass aside, we went back to our roots a bit yesterday.
Another well-beaten path
Similar to February’s Community Pop-Up, Aranguez Savannah is a haven for a slew of different afternoon activities. You’re talking football sweats, the cross-fit grind, and most of all; running.Â
Runners from the community registered in their numbers and it was pretty much like running at home because of the familiar territory.
The course was as straightforward as you’d want it too – three and a half laps around the landmark in order to collect a specialty medal at the end.
And the medals may ring a bell for those of you in the know.
Runners crossing the line yesterday helped themselves to medals from Phase II Pan Groove 5K, the NCC Carnival 5K and 1k, which kicked off the Midnight Runner Series, Dragon Eye medals, as well as Mayaro Shell medals – allfrom races past.
Boatswain and Francis cruise home
And as if the motivation to come out for a run weren’t enough, Keston Boatswain and Joy Francis seized top honours in the men’s and women’s categories respectively, without too much of a challenge in the process.
Boatswain crossed the line in 25 minutes 55.8 seconds establishing a wide gap between him and the closest rival, Ethan Owuori, who was 53.9 seconds behind in second, with Trevon Mitchell finishing third.
Francis’ run to the top of the podium was even more dominant, as she flew through the finish in 32:21.6, more than four minutes ahead of Chenelle Grandarson – 4:20.3 to be exact. Tiyee Timothy finished in third to round up the women’s podium.
Prizes were available for the elite runners (men and women) who made the podium, as well as the non-elites who made the podium in both categories as well.
Making it happen!
And of course even for the Pop-Ups, the success of the event is down to the hands on deck. Yesterday saw Subway, Powerade, and Dasani chip in to make the event a community hit. Powerade was the official isotonic drink sponsor, while Dasani handled the water in an official capacity.
Stay tuned for what’s in store in May
May is going to hit the ground running as well, as Sunday will be the St Joseph’s Convent 5K, and a week later get ready, as the already sold-out Midnight Marathon will finally hit the streets as runners will vie for the $16,000 prize waiting for the person who crosses the gantry first.
We can’t wait!
Results
Men
- Keston Boatswain – 25:44.8
- Ethan Owuori – 26:38.7
- Trevon Mitchell – 26:45.1
Women
- Joy Francis – 32:21.6
- Chenelle Grandarson – 36:41.9
- Tiyee Timothy – 38:11.7
*See results page for further details