Donawa: “I’m Retired Now, Will Go Out On Top”

May 25, 2017

Jay Donawa Bermuda May 24 2017 1[Written by Maya Palacio]

Jay Donawa wins the Appleby Bermuda Day Half Marathon after many years of competing.

The 44-year-old athlete says he has lost count on the number of Bermuda Day races he has competed in, but yesterday’s race was his last.

“I’m retired now. I’m going to go off on the top.”

Before the race yesterday, Donawa had good intentions on finishing in his well deserved first place but remained alerted of endeavors an athlete may face while competing.

“I went into the race optimistically cautious,” says Donawa.

“I used my experience and my experience paid off because it was a technical race and my tactics sort of dictated the race early and once I made a move I was able to be victorious.”

As a dedicated athlete who preaches that one should never give up in life, Donawa strived for his success yesterday through continuous training.

“I train regular, once a day. I keep it pretty steady.”

Many long-time supporters of Donawa exclaimed that “this is his -Donawa- day” and Donawa was congratulated throughout the Bermuda Day parade where he spent the rest of his day with his son.

“I plan to be with friends and family today.”

The now retired athlete was not focused on time for the race, crossing the finish line at 1:20:08. Donawa was more focused on running his own race and keeping a good pace that will put him on top.

“I wasn’t really too concerned about the time. It was so serial, I mean I had done it and finally won the race and it was exciting to come across like that.”

1 hour 45 minute live video replay of the Half-Marathon finish line

click here Bermuda Day

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Comments (5)

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  1. PBanks says:

    Shades of Pete Sampras, John Elway and Peyton Manning there. Win the ‘big one’ then go out on top.

    What a well-earned success after so many years of putting in the training and hard work. Enjoy the achievement.

  2. Cal Blankendal says:

    Jay, congratulations on winning the 24th of May 1/2 Marathon. You made me proud and put a smile on my face, as I reflected on our motto at the Warwick Secondary High School “Vision Vigour Victory.”

    VVV forever!!!

  3. Sook says:

    Well done Jay! Your perseverance has paid off!!!

  4. Sage says:

    A well deserved win! Jay you are an inspiration to me and should be to many youth on this island. Never give up!!

    Well done Mr. Donawa!

  5. Joanne says:

    Congrats Jay you will always be my # 1 runner. Can’t explain how i felt when you came across front street.

    Blessings
    your # 1 BIG FAN (LOL)