Jamaica Travel News

Wata Rose Hall Triathlon and Wellness Festival Scheduled for October

The grueling ‘Witch Hill’, perched on lands at the historic Rose Hall Great House, remains haunted by the prowess of Olympians Greg and Laura Bennett, who both return to Jamaica this year for the 2009 Wata Rose Hall Triathlon and Wellness Festival.

Greg Bennett returns to defend his championship title, having won the event in 1:59:31 in 2008 while his wife Laura promises to move her notch up from 1st runner-up position to the number one spot.

On October 31, 2009, the power couple will compete against Triathletes from all across the globe in the international distance which comprises a 1500m ocean swim; 23k bike and 10k golf course run. The excitement commences with the swim at the Rose Hall Resort and Spa, A Hilton Resort, culminating with the run on the Robert Van Hagge designed 18-hole Cinnamon Hill Golf Course in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

“The event is challenging, but it is a true adventure,” stated the title holder, who added that it was the adventure that makes Triathlon a unique sport. “The Wata Rose Hall Triathlon is truly a special experience that will challenge every athlete with its dramatic climbs and the Witch’s Hill."

In the meantime, Laura Bennett, who placed fourth at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, has dared those up to taking a challenge to “Bring on the witch." The athlete noted, "I look forward to racing in Jamaica; it was and is a demanding course, exciting for the beginner triathlete and challenging for the professionals!”

Comparing Jamaica to a great end of season event the couple said the island was an easy trip from the States. “And the event is a great Triathlon challenge. We are both excited about having Rose Hall Jamaica on our schedule for the conclusion of the year.”

Complemented by a wellness festival, the marquee event has had added two new features to this year’s event. Rayne Russell, managing director of Entertain Jamaica, announced, “We want this event to be a family affair and so we have added a kid’s triathlon to the mix." The fun continues into the evening with a Halloween party at the 17th Century Rose Hall Great House made famous by the White Witch of Rose Hall, Annie Palmer.

“One thing we can promise is that Annie will ride out on her horse and carrying her whip, like she did back in the days,” said Russell as he gave a sneak preview into the ghost stories made famous by the witch.

Wellness Festival

The event will bring together leading fitness and wellness professionals from Jamaica and the United States, who will provide an open forum for discussion, exploration and learning.

“We will highlight the event through the unique holistic healing methods which have been practiced in Jamaica for generations, as well as a diverse realm of universally-recognized wellness traditions, most of which have made their way from the East to Jamaica’s shores,” said Russell.

For more information:

• visit www.rosehalltriathlon.com

Labels: festivals, Montego Bay

posted by Paris and John @ 2:07 PM