Smart running for heritage, cancer support

United Kingdom-based marathon runner and coach Rey Smart has launched Project Run 246, a solo charity run around Barbados aimed at raising funds for cancer research while honouring his Bajan heritage.

Smart, who is from London, said the project was deeply personal, combining his passion for fitness with his family’s roots on the island.

An international runner and coach, he has spent years promoting running and wellness across the world and previously visited Barbados in 2018 to participate in Run Barbados events organised in collaboration with Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI).

Born in the United Kingdom, Smart traces his Barbadian lineage through his grandparents Oswald and Shirley Maskell. He said his grandfather, who hailed from St Peter, made history after migrating to the UK.

“Granddad was invited to the UK by London Transport and was one of the first black bus drivers in Alperton. So he made history and he retired with merits,” Smart said, adding that his grandparents raised six children and put strong emphasis on education and discipline.

The charity run, scheduled for tomorrow, will begin at 5:30 p.m. from the Speightstown Esplanade and continue around the island. The name Project Run 246 reflects Barbados’ international dialling code and symbolises his connection to the country.

“246 is obviously the Barbados National Code and I’ve chosen to do it to raise money for cancer research,” Smart explained.

“That’s close to my heart, having lost relatives to cancer and then also for just honouring the legacy and heritage, my Bajan heritage and my grandparents.”

He said starting the run in Speightstown was intentional, as it is where his grandfather was born.

Smart noted that feedback from Barbadians and the local running community had been overwhelmingly positive, with members of the Mountain Goats running group offering encouragement and support.

“People are so supportive when they hear what I’m doing and why I’m doing it,” he said.

While the run is an independent initiative and not part of an official collaboration with BTMI, Smart said he remained committed to promoting Barbados positively and supporting local causes. He has also highlighted the work of the Barbados Cancer Society and encouraged residents to prioritise health screening.

Although Project Run 246 will be completed as a solo run, Smart said he hoped it could grow into a legacy event in the future.

“My heart is in Barbados and I wish it the best, so I’d love to create a legacy here,” he said. “Whether that is inspiring the youth or maybe doing relays where people can take it in teams and turns to run around the island, that is my dream.”

Smart aims to raise £10 000 for Cancer Research UK and said he was already more than a quarter of the way toward that goal. He also thanked supporters and sponsors who have contributed. (SW)

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