The 20th Anniversary edition of The UWI SPEC International Half-Marathon, taking place on Sunday, 25 October 2026, marks a significant milestone for one of the University’s flagship sporting events. The Half-Marathon will once again be accompanied by the UWI SPEC 5K, offering a more accessible race option and allowing a wider cross-section of participants to be part of Race Day. While the 20th Anniversary commemorates the Half-Marathon specifically, both races will contribute to a broader event experience focused on obesity awareness, active living and better health.
By placing obesity awareness and active living at the centre of the 2026 event, The UWI is supporting the broader objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3): Good Health and Well-being, particularly Target 3.4, which calls for a reduction in premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through prevention, treatment and the promotion of physical and mental well-being. Obesity remains a major public health concern in Trinidad and Tobago and is a significant modifiable risk factor for NCDs such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Its impact extends beyond individual health, contributing to increased healthcare costs, pressure on national health systems and reduced workforce productivity. By connecting the Half-Marathon with this cause, the event provides a highly visible and action-oriented platform to encourage healthier lifestyles and greater public awareness.
Supporting this mission, Race Day will feature a comprehensive Health and Wellness Village, offering health screenings, nutritional guidance, wellness resources and interactive booths hosted by health-focused organisations. Over its first 19 editions, The UWI SPEC International Half-Marathon has grown significantly, from approximately 300 participants in 2004 to 2,100 in 2025. With the event celebrating its 20th edition in 2026, even greater participation is anticipated as runners, fitness enthusiasts, families and supporters come together for this landmark occasion.
The Half-Marathon will begin promptly at 5:00 a.m. at The UWI Sport and Physical Education Centre (SPEC). The established 13.1-mile route will remain unchanged, taking runners along the traffic-free Priority Bus Route from St. Augustine to La Resource Junction in D’Abadie before returning along the same route to the finish.
The 5K race will begin at 5:15 a.m. on the same morning. Designed to encourage wider participation, the 5K provides an accessible option for individuals of varying fitness levels who want to be part of the energy and experience of Race Day.
Through collaboration with the National Association of Athletics Administrations of Trinidad and Tobago (NAAATT) and the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC), the event benefits from local certification and international accreditation through AIMS and World Athletics, reinforcing its standing as a professionally organised road race.
For further information, visit The UWI SPEC website, call (868) 645-9239 or (868) 662-2002 ext. 83808, 83571, 82594 or 82660, or email specinfo@sta.uwi.edu.
Here are some tips for the novice runner to the experienced athlete.
Before you begin half-marathon training you should be able to run for at least 30 minutes without stopping.
During half-marathon training 65% of your total calories should come from carbohydrates.
Treat your feet to a good pair of running shoes to ensure you encounter no problems. Train in them before race day.
Always warm up before training or racing, with stretches and other appropriate exercises and then don't forget to cool down.
Always remember to carry and consume 6-8 oz of fluids every 20 minutes while running.
Try to avoid injury by using your non-running days to rest and recover. Taking time off to treat soreness will minimise your chances of injury.
You should allow your body the rest it needs between training so it can recover. From one run to the next, your body gets stronger.
Since the inception in 2004, the UWI Spec 1/2 Marathon has evolved into an international event with participants from all over the world
