For the past 17 years, David “Dottie” Oxley has organised the My Lord’s Hill Community Walk/Run and he is hoping this year’s event, to take place tomorrow, will attract the most participants ever.
“I have sent out about 200 forms for the 2K and the same number for the 5K, so if everyone registers and shows up, we could have one of the biggest ones yet,” he said.
Oxley recalled that the idea originated when he wanted to bring people into The Ivy/My Lord’s Hill communities in St Michael on a yearly basis.
However, rather than the usual football or cricket tournament, he came up with a 5K, which he said was a hit. Then, he added, the children in the area complained they were being left out, so he introduced the 2K for the next year.
“Sports bring people together; nothing does it better. I like the whole vibe of the race and walk, and people in the community look forward to it every year,” he said, adding 130 children and 150 adults took part last year.
Oxley pointed out his event was unique as it took the participants through the communities rather than just the main roads, allowing people to sit in their homes and cheer on the runners and walkers.
“It’s all about fitness, fun and family, so any sponsorship we get, we will take, especially when it comes to things like Powerades. You can’t ever have enough, and more prizes,” he said.
The organiser reiterated that the overall idea is to show something positive in The Ivy as there was so much negativity surrounding the community. (CA)
