Nicholas Romany and Samantha Shukla will be back to defend their respective men's and women's titles at the Venture Credit Union Co-operative Society Limited annual 5K Run and Fun Walk Sunday.
Some $300,000 is up for grabs at this year's prestigious event themed “Unity”, which begins at 6.30 am.
The event was launched at the Courtyard by Marriott Port-of-Spain back in July.
Then, Shukla stated she enjoys seeing the diverse group of people at the Venture Credit Union race.
"I love seeing the ages of people. From the young to the old coming out, especially the families, coming on that morning and enjoying the event and being able to celebrate their health. That is a really good thing and I thank Venture Credit Union for having the event."
Kenyan runner Alex Ekesa is expected to participate in this year's 5k. Ekesa placed second in last year's event.
"With Kenyan runner Alex Ekesa taking part, I will have to bring out my best. Being an international and a very competitive athlete, he actually makes me run faster," Romany said. "I really appreciate him for being here. He always brings out something new that he will use in the event."
Venture’s 5k and Fun Walk, Challenge Trophy is in remembrance of Past Chairman Desmond Baxter MOM, who was there from the inception of the event.
President of the Venture Credit Union Board Charles Percy, at the launch, said: "For over 27 years, Venture has been committed to enhancing the economic, social and physical well-being of its members and the communities it serves. Our 5K Run and Fun Walk is more than just an event on the local road running calendar. It is a celebration of our collective spirit, resilience and unity, as we engage all in our community.
"Let us all come together and make this year's Run and Fun Walk the best yet, fostering a sense of community, health and well-being."
Acting Director Physical Education, Sports Division at Ministry of Sports and Community Development Patrice Charles said, "It gives me great pleasure once again on behalf of the ministry to congratulate Venture Credit Union."
Promoting a healthy lifestyle which is being endorsed by the ministry, Charles said, "It fits perfectly within our 5k and supports our mandate to ensure that sporting events such as this one are mainstream and accessible."
Rachael Mason, assistant vice president Sales and Products at CUNA Caribbean Insurance Ltd, a main sponsor, said, "This event stands as a testament to our shared commitment to community wellness and financial health for all people as we like to say at CUNA. As sponsors, we are really honoured to support and promote both physical and financial security and unity among all. Together let's celebrate the spirit of unity and determination that defines this event."
Also taking a great part in this event is Athletics Central who will oversee the technical part of the 5K.
On the morning of the event, there will also be cultural events, together with sugar testing, and blood pressure levels.
Registration for the event has already begun at the Credit Union Offices at Arouca, Couva and San Fernando.
The event will be a competitive one with teams from different credit unions, and other financial institutions together with companies of the Pt Lisas Industrial Estate taking part.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top finishers. The first man and woman will each win $3,500. While the second will receive $3,000 and third place $2,500.
All age group participants who placed first, second and third will also receive cash prizes.
A special prize of $200 will be given to the disabled participant on arriving first the finish line.
The race will start in front of the Venture Couva car park with president Percy, once again doing his duty by sounding the horn to start the 5K and fun walk and ends in front of the Couva branch.