Cherry Tree Tot Race tomorrow

Manama : To raise funds for more than 35 Bahraini charities through its Community Service Fund, the American Women’s Association (AWA) will hold its biennial Cherry Tree Tot Race (CTT) at the Bahrain International Circuit at Sakhir tomorrow. 

The race aims to celebrate the spirit of mentally and physically challenged participants. 

“It has been a busy month and busier past for a couple of days. But we are superbly excited for the event because we have over 500 registered participants and we are looking forward for more to sign up in the next couple of days,” said CTT Chairperson Karen Floyd on the preparations made for the race.

Cherry Tree Tot Race is the oldest and most high profile charity event in the Kingdom.

“I think the most special element of this race is all the beautiful people who have become and will become a part of this year’s event,” she said. “I do not think I would have met so many wonderful and enthusiastic women who belong to different nationalities if I had not been a part of the AWA. I feel so blessed to be associated with all these causes that the organisation supports,” she said.

Karen who has not lived in Bahrain for very long has already started to enjoy the nation. She said: “Everybody is so friendly and accepting. I think Manama is a brilliant city to live in and also poses as a wonderful platform for a race that promotes diversity and inclusivity.” Although, this is Karen’s first year leading the CTT team, the AWA has been hosting the Cherry Tree Tot Race since the1980’s. It is one of their largest fundraising events, bringing joy to so many charities. 

This year the race is divided among three main categories namely adults (over the age of 18), Children and people in wheelchairs. The event includes a 2k race for physically and mentally challenged participants and other 2k, 3k, 5k, and 8k races for able bodied participants. Those who dislike running can come along to spectate for free, or join the 3k Walkathon. 

The participants with mental and physical challenges will be supported in their race by students and adult volunteers, including many from the American Forces based in Bahrain.

Race participants will receive an official CTT tee-shirt, a race number, complimentary meals and beverages, and finishing certificates along with 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards for the male and female winners. 

AWA encourages all participants, especially the children to find sponsors to back the great causes involved as there will be prizes for the child and the school that raises the most amounts of funds.