South of Playa del Carmen about 15 minutes is the close gated community of Puerto Aventuras This neighborhood along the Mexican Caribean is both a golf community and also is the only marina community of the Riviera Maya This past Thanksgiving week-end Puerto Aventuras played host to the first annual 5 and 10 kilometer Marathon 2008.
The race started early Sunday morning with final call being at seven am sharp at the community kiosk Hundreds of families arrived as there were several divisions which included the children age group of boys and girls of 9 – 14 years of age Teen age years of 15-18 years of age Masters, and even veterans age group for either the 5 kilometer or 10 kilometer run The competition was fierce as the awards included trophies, medals, and special prizes for the bronze, silver, and gold positions!
The first at the starting blocks were the children's division for the 1,000 meter race The turnout was impressive being the first annual event as many families from the region woke up early to participate After this race was complete, the racers for the 5 kilometer run lined up and shot out of the starting line These particpants followed the guide on a scooter to wind them through the racing route The track weaved next to the Puerto Aventura marina, it took them across the draw bridge and back towards the golf course On the northern part of the route, a pleasant jog past the lagoon and the Mexican Caribbean beaches, and then back along the fairways to arrive back to the start/finish line A complete circle of the northern half of Puerto Aventuras
The race was a success as many participants, families, and athletes from the region joined together for a great Sunday of running
Bea Lozano
(512)879-6546