Hike-a-thon from Matelot to Blanchisseuse

The hikeathon provides an opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the country, as well as exercise and relaxation of the mind.

The 31 kilometres stretch of the North Coast from Matelot to Blanchisseuse is one of the most beautiful regions to discover. Some of the scenic beaches along the route are Madamas, Grand Tacaribe, Petit Tacaribe, Murphy, Paria and Turtle Rock. The river’s mouth at Madamas Bay is breathtaking with its fantastic seascape, peaceful, calm and refreshing water.

During February to July, the North Coast beaches turn into a nesting ground for the leatherback turtles. The route from Matelot to Blanchisseuse is only accessible on foot, and the pathway between the bays is broad and open with gentle inclines. The beaches along the coast remain pristine, and it is the duty of citizens to protect their environment and preserve wildlife.

The annual Hike-a-thon is known as The Greatest Hiking Event. Saturday’s will mark its eighth anniversary. It attracts a variety of enthusiastic participants some of whom do it for pleasure, while others approach the expedition with a more serious attitude and treat it as a race. It is a challenge to test one’s fitness and recognition of the distinguished title of “King of The North Coast”.

Over the years, more professional athletes have participated in the event which attracts some 300 participants. Yearly, the finishing times are becoming faster. The expedition can take the fit hiker between five to eight hours to complete.

However, the finishing times of the professionals are under four hours. The 2016 and 2015 winner Michael Honore finished the Hike-a-thon in a record-breaking time of two hours and 57 minutes.

Second Place Anand Baal three hours and 41 minutes, and third place Wayne Matthew three hours and 48 minutes. Among the females, Saffiyah Ali placed first in a time of 4.28.52. On completion, each participant is rewarded with a medal, jersey, food, and drinks.

The Hike-a-thon’s distance is divided into three legs.

Leg 1: Matelot to Madamas (estimated hiking time: three hours) Leg 2: Madamas to Paria (estimated three hours) Leg 3: Paria to Blanchisseuse Spring Bridge (estimated two hours) Note: Pre-registration required.

Hike-a-thon is for fit or experienced people and one should not attempt unless exercising daily or accustom to walking hills.

To download registration forms or more info visit www.islandhikers.

com Assembly: 2 am entrance to Eric Williams Medical Complex, Mt Hope.

Maxi-taxi departs at 2.45 am to Matelot Start time of expedition 6.30 am Return in the afternoon by maxi-taxi from Blanchisseuse.

What to bring: change of clothing labelled and left in the maxi.

On the trail: 1-2 litres of water, sports refreshments, snacks and a sandwich.

Cost includes a medal, T-shirt, transportation to Matelot and returns from Blanchisseuse, meal, and refreshments provided at the finish line.