A Step Ahead Physiotherapy has taken on the mantle of the Stroke & Stride races. This popular and long standing fundraising event is coming up soon. Consisting of a 3-series set of races that take place over consecutive Wednesday evenings at Sunset House, the swim and run race has a new sponsor this year in A Step Ahead Physiotherapy (ASAP) of Governors Square.

Christine Gibbs, co-owner and head physiotherapist of ASAP says, “We are so excited to be playing such a major part in Stroke & Stride this year.  Not only are we proud to sponsor the event, but I am excited to be Race Director.  We will also be providing mini pre- and post-event physio treatments for the participants”.

Fiona Graham, co-owner and office manager of ASAP says, “The great thing about Stroke & Stride is that it draws a lot of spectators so there is a lot of support and a great atmosphere for the athletes.  People like to hang out at Sunset House for a drink and bite to eat while the event is going on.”

The Stroke & Stride races are a 3-series event that consists of a swim and run race of increasing swim distance.  Event 1 takes place on August 7th and is a 400m swim and 2 mile run, Event 2 on August 14th is a 600m swim and 2 mile run, and Event 3 on August 21st is an 800m swim and 2 mile run.  Starting and finishing at Sunset House on South Church Street, the swim is done in the beautiful clear waters off the dock and the run takes place around the South Sound area.  Organised by the Cayman Islands Triathlon Association, the event has been running for well over 10 years and is hugely popular.  This year the charity benefitting from money raised is Cayman HospiceCare.

Christine says, “The thing I love about this event is that the distances are short enough so people who aren’t conditioned to do a full distance triathlon can compete. Plus, you don’t have to have a bike so there is minimal equipment needed. Sunset House are providing refreshments for the post-race party on August 21st and they are also offering visiting tourists the chance to book their dive vacation with the ASAP Stroke & Stride, so we hope to get some overseas visitors joining in.”

Sunset House has been the long-standing venue for Stroke & Stride, its location being ideal for a swim/run event.  But it is equally good for spectators who can drink and eat at the bar and restaurant whilst they cheer the athletes on.

“Patients have already started coming into the clinic asking about the event and talking about finding a teammate!” says Fiona.

Both individuals and teams can compete.  Points are awarded to the top 10 finishers at each race.  The overall results are determined by total points then total time.  Defending 2012 Champions are Matthew Courtis and Jacqui Retief.  Races start at 5.45pm.

Triathlon Association President Trevor Murphy says, “The Triathlon Association is very happy that A Step Ahead Physiotherapy has stepped into the Stroke & Stride!  We look forward to working with Christine and her team to make this event fun and inspiring for all those who take part.  Even if you don’t want to race, then come down and have a drink after work and support those who do – it’s a great spectator’s event.  We also need plenty of volunteers to make the event happen, so e-mail us at [email protected] if you can help”.

Participants can take part in one or all races with registration for individuals being $15 per race or $35 for all three races, and for teams the cost is $25 per race or $60 for all three.  Register online, or in person on Tuesday August 6th from 5.30pm to 7pm at Sunset House.  There will be no race day sign up – this will be strictly enforced!

Registration is now open and more information can be found at www.triathlon.ky/stroke-and-stride