Bermuda’s running community is set to descend on the Botanical Gardens this Sunday as the annual RenaissanceRe 5-Mile and 10-Mile Challenge returns to the South Shore.
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment has issued a formal notice to motorists to exercise caution, with hundreds of participants expected to take part in one of the most popular fixtures on the local road-running calendar.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, 12 April 2026, with the first wave of athletes hitting the pavement early:
7:30 am: Number pickup commences at the start line.
8:00 am: Early start for 10-mile participants (specifically for those expecting a pace over 12 minutes per mile).
8:30 am: Official 10-mile run start.
8:35 am: 5-mile run and competitive walk start.
The races are expected to conclude by 11:00 am.
Both races will utilize a "loop" format, starting and ending in the vicinity of Paget and Smith's:
The 10-Mile Route: Participants will start at the South Gate of the Botanical Gardens on South Road, heading East until a turnaround point just past the junction with Paynter’s Road.
The 5-Mile Route: Runners and walkers will follow the same path East, turning around at the West Carpark entrance of Spittal Pond.
The Finish: All participants will return via South Road to the finish line at the Lagoon Property, directly opposite the Botanical Gardens' South Gate.
While no road closures have been announced for the event, motorists are warned that significant traffic control measures will be in place. Race Marshals and Police Officers will be stationed along the route to prioritize athlete safety and manage the flow of vehicles.
Motorists are requested to follow all instructions given by officials and are urged to show consideration for the participants to avoid collisions or delays.
The Bermuda Police have also been authorized to "close off" specific streets or sections of the road should the Commissioner of Police deem it necessary for public safety during the peak of the race.
For any urgent questions regarding race day logistics or potential traffic impact, the public may contact race representatives Jenny Farrer at 532-2402 or Louise Edwards at 901-2335.
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