FIRST EVER I WANNA BE LIKE ASHA WALK AND RUN ON STATIA

The St. Eustatius Sports Foundation, Statia Get In Shape (JOGG), St. Eustatius Arts and Cultural Heritage Foundation (STACH) together with the St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation (STDF) hosted the I Wanna Be Like Asha walk/run for the very first time on the island, February 9th, 2016.  The sport activity is part of STDF's tourism awareness campaign, which commenced November last year and is expected to run until September this year. Each month the department showcases different forms of tourism that exists locally. 

Lydicia Fleming one of the youngest runners who participated.

In this months sports tourism event, Ms. Asha Robins, Statia’s very own local track and field  athlete was showcased. I Wanna Be Like Asha started at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Airport with a speech by Mr. Derick Simmons who, represented the commissioner of Sports Mr. Reginald Zaandam. Followed by an introduction and speech by Ms Teena Lopes, Public Relations Officer and one of the coordinators of the event. 

Warm up session.

Asha and team performed a warm up exercise to kick start the fitness walk/run, whereby subsequently the runners started by the alertness of the police siren and walkers as immediately after. Asha has been doing an awesome job taking part in various competitions on overseas. The event was organized with the meaning of a New Year’s resolution and motivational drive, towards a healthy and fitness approach, and not only that, but to also show appreciation for the talented individual, giving her the recognition she deserves. "Ms. Robins is an icon on the island, Statia’s very own energizer bunny".

Flyer of the event!

The marathon lasted approximately one hour and ended at the new harbor pavilion, otherwise known as the dock or boardwalk. DJ Sense entertained the crowd of over 100 participants and other spectators. Many persons were amazed to see a table filled with plaques, medals and trophies won by Asha,  dating back to 1990.

In photo: from right, Director of Tourism, Charles Lindo, Asha Robins and  the youngest runner of the day, Jeidrison Hook.

Many relatives of Asha came out in living color to show their support.