The Sandals Foundation Island Challenge has surpassed all expectations, raising an astounding £100,000, to fund vital paediatric healthcare services at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and paediatric health programmes on the southern islands in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The four-day challenge, held in partnership with the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment, the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, and Team Athletics SVG brought together over 30 athletes from the UK and Saint Vincent to take on an unforgettable test of endurance. Participants traversed scenic routes, running and kayaking over 70 kilometers through the stunning island landscapes—all united for a single cause.

“We witnessed an inspiring show of strength and solidarity as athletes from both the UK and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines came together for this meaningful cause,” said Karen Zacca, Operations Director of the Sandals Foundation. “The challenge went beyond physical endurance; it was a shared mission to bring hope to children in need of advanced medical care. What we saw was a true coming together of people who care about the same thing—paediatric health on the island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and support for the Neonatal Clinic at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. The first purchase will be a digital incubator, ensuring that newborns receive the critical care they need from the very start.”

The Island Challenge 2024 kicked off on Friday, October 11 with a scenic 17-kilometer + run starting from the Turtle Sanctuary area and winding through the lush terrain of Bequia. Athletes navigated a challenging path that took them through Port Elizabeth, up hills, and through the vibrant landscapes of La Pompe and St. Hillaire, culminating at the Sir James Mitchel Airport.

Participants tackle a gruelling 15-kilometer run on Day two from the northern entrance of Sandals Resort, winding through the coastal roads of Buccament, Layou, and Barrouallie. The athletes pressed on through picturesque villages before finishing on the beach in Wallilabou where they then paddled 11 kilometers back to Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

On Day three, participants faced another intense 22-kilometer run starting from the Diamond Industrial Estate, traveling along the Windward Highway, and finishing at Sandals Resort in Buccament. This leg tested their mental and physical limits as they passed through bustling towns and the historic city of Kingstown.

The final leg on Monday, October 14 involved a demanding hike of over 7-kilometers through the Wallilabou River to the buried Trinity Falls, taking athletes through the untouched beauty of Saint Vincent's natural landscape. This symbolic final journey signified not only the culmination of the physical challenge but also the success of their mission to raise funds for children’s healthcare.

Zoe Rae, a UK athlete and social media influencer, expressed her excitement about the challenge, “this is our fourth day of lots and lots of miles, but this was a real high to end on knowing that we raised the money for a worthy cause.”

Her partner, Danny Rae, echoed her sentiments, “we had the opportunity to visit the hospital and see the paediatric ward before the challenge, and that’s what gave us the motivation to keep pushing. It’s been hard work, but that’s what charity is about. These four days have been an incredible experience.”

For local athlete Malakye Nero from the Xceed Sports Club, the familiarity with the terrain provided a unique perspective, “running these routes felt natural, but the real challenge was knowing what we were running for. The cause kept me focused, and it was a privilege to contribute to something so important for our community.”

Bringing the Island Challenge to life was a true community effort, thanks to the invaluable support of our local partners. Nubak SVG Ltd stepped in as a silver sponsor, ensuring smooth transportation throughout the event, while the East Caribbean Group of Companies fueled the athletes with much-needed refreshments. Republic Bank also supported as a silver sponsor, and Wind and Sea Grenadines provided an unforgettable catamaran evening cruise, which gave local and UK athletes and partners the chance to meet and interact for the first time.

The success of the Sandals Foundation Island Challenge was made possible through the collective efforts of sponsors and partners. Their support ensured that not only did the event run smoothly but that the funds raised will directly impact the lives of infants in need of specialized care.