Chinatown 7k footrace set for September 10

THE Fui Toong On Association will host a 7k road race in Port of Spain on September 10, which it believes will further improve the relationship between China and TT.

The group launched the event at a ceremony at its head office on Charlotte Street, Port of Spain, on Tuesday morning.

At 4pm, the race will begin at the Chinatown arch at Charlotte Street/Brian Lara Promenade. Participants will then turn north on Henry Street and make one lap around the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, and return to the arch.

The entry fee is $100 and co-sponsors include the Chinese Embassy, FCMC Membership Shopping, the China Society and the China-TT Chamber of Commerce.

The association's president Joe Chan thanked the over 900 registrants for their support and the sponsors.

He said there are also $50,000 worth of prizes to be won, and added that $100,000 will be donated to the Homeless Assistance Office in Port of Spain.

"This race has great potential to develop as an annual event," he said.

He said the idea came during the height of the covid19 pandemic, so it was put on hold.

"But nothing happens before its time," he said.

"The wait is almost over.

"It will be a wonderful sight to see about 2,000 runners, joggers and walkers on the street in Chinatown."

Chinese ambassador to TT Fang Qiu said the Chinese community continues to be "warmly welcomed" in TT.

He thanked the Port of Spain City Corporation for its "longtime support to the Chinese community.

He said he has always taken pride in the relationship between the two countries.

Port of Spain mayor Joel Martinez said the race is not just about athleticism and fitness, but "the profound impact it will have on our community."

He said it is a testament of the "enduring ties that unite TT and China.

"Compassion knows no borders," he said.

"We are not only making a positive impact on the lives of the people we serve but also laying a foundation for a more prospective and inclusive Port of Spain.

Port of Spain South MP Keith Scotland said he will be participating in the race and congratulated the association on its new venture.

Those interested can register online at bafasports.com.