media_artricles :: 2014

Nurse to challenge for Guinness World Record spot

WILLON IVAN Nurse also known as the flag man would take part in his 11th UWI International Half- Marathon on October 26 to prepare to challenge the Guinness World Record, for the longest distance run with a national flag within 24 hours.

The 39-year-old has already registered with Guinness and is hoping to set the record this year by covering a distance of 170 miles across Trinidad.

“Running with a National Flag is more than just being patriotic, it’s my attempt to get in the Guinness Book of World Records, but use this marathon as preparation,” he said.

He attempted to go for the record last year but was unable to achieve it due to lack of funding and management, which he is still looking for this year. “I am looking for people to come on board and support and work with me,” he pleaded.

Nurse, who is a second-year History Major at the University of the Southern Caribbean, is confident he could set the Guinness record with the help of God, who he attributes all his successes to.

He also plays a key role in the development of Shania Francis, a middle-distance runner who vies to become the first female middle-distance athlete to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Olympics.

At just 15, the Form Four Fyzabad Secondary student has taken part in a number of 5K races this year, and ironically has medalled in all. Her most recent outing was competing in the Newsday Save the Children 5K where she placed third among the women.

Her main goal is to be selected to represent TT at the Carifta Games and the 2015 Youth Games in Colombia, to compete in the 800 and 1500 metres events.

“It’s her first time running the UWI Half-Marathon, she is looking to set a new Youth National record,” he continued.

“I just want people to come out and support her.”

He went on to compare her to national distance runner Tonya Nero, who he says she has a similar running style to. “She has a lot of potential and I think she can be among the best in the country once she gets the needed supported behind her,” he ended.

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