The finish of the Bermuda Half-Marathon Derby is returning to Dutton Avenue.

Just two years after making a much heralded return to Court Street, the race committee has revealed it has decided to again switch the finish of Bermuda’s biggest running event.

The finish of the 2026 edition will now be slightly further south on Dutton Avenue than previously, which means the Somerset start line will be moved slightly forward. The new starting point will now be directly in front of MarketPlace in Somerset.

The new course has already been measured and marked out by Bob Thurston, who is certified by World Athletics and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.

Thurston was helped in the endeavour by Bermuda Half-Marathon Derby committee members Kim Tucker, Roger Lee & Tori Richardson, with Stephen DeSilva of Bermuda Timing Services also assisting.

The race committee said the decision had been made following a review and that Bernard Park was the venue of choice.

“The decision follows a comprehensive review of operational logistics, runner experience, community feedback, and long-term planning priorities,” the committee said in a statement.

“Bernard Park emerged as the clear choice for 2026, providing the ideal blend of space, accessibility and atmosphere to elevate the race experience for participants and spectators alike.

“The Committee noted that while alternative venues had been explored in recent years, Bernard Park continues to offer unmatched operational and cultural advantages ― from its central location to its historic connection with Derby Day celebrations.”

Dr Gina Tucker, president of the Derby, is looking forward to the 2026 event.

“The Half-Marathon Derby is about Bermudians coming together,” Tucker said.

“Bringing the finish back to Bernard Park aligns us with that legacy and opens the door for new enhancements that honour the past while building for the future. We look forward to continuing with our commitment to continuously enhancing the race experience. ”

Melissa Looby, finish line experience manager, is confident that a return to Dutton Avenue will benefit from the event.

“Bernard Park is woven into the legacy of this event,” Looby said.

“From the energy of the crowd to the ease of access for families, vendors, and support teams, especially medical personnel, returning to the Park allows us to enhance the finish-line experience while strengthening the community spirit that defines the Derby.”

The 2026 race is already shaping up to be a thrilling affair with Dennis Mbelenzi, a controversial “winner” of the race the last time the Dutton Avenue finish was in use in 2023, now resident in Bermuda and targeting a first legitimate victory in the contest.

He will need to be at his best to hold off last year’s winner Sean Trott and the young Ryan Outerbridge, who has finished runner-up in 2024 and 2025.

A new winner will be crowned in the women’s race with three-times winner Gayle Lindsay having left Bermuda since completing her hat-trick last year.