Regis, Deonanan victorious at CariFin Cross Country

The finals of the four-part running series was the decider of the overall top performers in the series.

It was the biggest day in the history of the CariFin Games for Deonanan, who has been competing since 2015 and collecting minor placements along the way.

However, this year proved to be different for Deonanan as the number one position opened up to him and allowed him to take his seat among the champions.

After winning the cross country title in 28 minutes and eight seconds (28:08), Deonanan said, “Although I was confident going into the Cross Country, I am a bit surprised to have won, especially knowing the level of talent that was represented on that day.

Crossing the finish line was a great feeling and I literally had to take a moment to let it settle in.” Deonanan was consistent throughout the CariFin Games to claim the best overall male runner.

He finished third in the One Lap Savannah and the Green Mile, while snatching silver in the Chancellor Challenge.

Second place in the Cross Country went to 2016 champion Abijah Phillip in 30:15, while Steve Blackburn of Unit Trust was third in 31:51.

Regis of ANSA Financial Services celebrated her second consecutive Cross Country title with a time of 24:03, TWO minutes and 29 seconds ahead of the second place finisher. Her main challenger Salina Scott of Central Bank, the previous winner of all three pre-races, was unable to compete in the event. Natalie Thomas of Central Bank filled the second spot and third place went to First Citizens Darcel Aquillera, who finished in 28:01.

When asked how she felt about winning the women’s Cross Country title, Regis said, “I feel really great, because I was a bit scared knowing that I came off a very hard marathon last week and I am still in the recovery stage, so I was not sure how I was going to run today. My muscles are still sore but thank the Lord I did it and I came out victorious.” Deodath Harrikissoon, who had missed the pre-walk event due to illness, took control of this race and showed that he still had the confidence necessary to lead from the start. This First Citizens champion was back and ready to continue his winning streak. He separated himself from the pack and as he entered the 2.2k course, he was all alone and headed for the finish line. Harrikissoon crossed the line in 18:19.

Tessa Weekes of Republic Bank made it four wins out of four for 2017 among the women, and is the only athlete to accomplish this feat. She walked the 2.2k event in 20.15, and therefore took the overall walking title.