Dennis Mbelenzi and a few top runners on the island are using the Hamilton Princess and Gosling’s Rum to the Beach tomorrow as a warm-up for the Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge.

At a time when runners like Sean Trott and David Lunn indicated that they were preserving themselves for the races next week, Mbelenzi, who has been in dominant form since the start of the season, views the event as a perfect way to prepare himself for what lies ahead.

The 44-year-old is gearing up for the full challenge, that is the Butterfield Invitational Mile, Allshores 10K and PwC Bermuda Marathon.

“I am doing it mainly as a final workout ahead of the busy Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge, where I plan to do the full challenge,” Mbelenzi told The Royal Gazette.

“It’s a tough and technical course and strong runners have had to walk that climb from Middle Road to Fairmont Southampton. I can understand those who skip this because it’s a taper week.”

With defending champion Philip Woollins also taking part in the 7.13-mile race, Mbelenzi is humble about his chances of winning.

“There are some talented young athletes and I hope to conserve some energy by not going too hard,” he said.

“It’s a long race though and if I am lucky to win, I won’t be waiting before I start snacking at the end. It’s a well-organised race and they do provide some nice treats at the finish line.”

Woollins is hoping for perfect conditions to aid his running. Last year, the runners had to deal with strong winds along the course.

“Running quicker than last year would be really nice, but that will depend on the conditions,” he said.

“Taking part in this race before the Challenge depends on what you’re targeting. Most coaches recommend the last hard effort roughly nine to ten days before a key race.

“This is probably a bit longer than you’d want that effort to be, so some people will skip it or take it easier if they’re focusing on that.”

For the women, Teresa Ruiz, the winner last year, is back to defend her title. She is going up against Stepanka Sprincova and Rose-Anna Hoey, who finished second and third respectively in 2025.

Meanwhile, Bermudian runner Jake Brislane tomorrow takes part in the 10K Valencia Ibercaja, in Spain. While the 20-year-old is running on the same course with the elite athletes at the popular event, he is part of a wave starting after the pros have taken off.