The Fairmont to Fairmont race is no more.

The traditional start to the Island’s running season since the 1978, the race began life as the Princess to Princess, and was the Mid Atlantic Athletic Club’s first organised event.

Now all that has changed, with Gosling’s confirming that they will be a co-sponsor of the first Gosling’s to Fairmont Southampton Road Race in January.

The race will occupy the same date in the Bermuda National Athletic Association road running calendar, and be on largely the same course to Fairmont Southampton.

However, the difference now is that runners will start the 7.2 mile race at Gosling’s headquarters on Dundonald Street, head up over Cedar Avenue and Burnaby Hill, before turning on to Front Street.

From there they will follow the previous race course to Fairmont Southampton Beach Club, via Harbour Road, Burnt House Hill and Middle Road.

“From sailing events to golf tournaments and now road races, we are proud to support athletic events across Bermuda,” Andrew Holmes, from Gosling’s Limited, said.

“Events like the Gosling’s to Fairmont Southampton Road Race support our local community, help generate animation and excitement for our destination with the international market, and are a key component to our brand marketing efforts for Goslings.

“Plus, a little rum at the finish line is a great way to end a road race.”

The event will be the beginning of the Bermuda running year, attracting competitors from both Bermuda and overseas in the build-up to International Race Weekend, which starts on Friday, January 15.

The Gosling’s to Fairmont Southampton race also includes a competitive walking category, a three-member team relay, and a junior 3k race.

There will be one other addition to January’s race.

In recognition of the late Peter Lever, one of the founding members of MAAC and the first Princess to Princess race director in 1978, the male runners will compete for the Peter Lever Cup.

The adult Gosling’s to Fairmont Southampton Race has prizes for the top male and female finishers in the following categories: 16-39 (open); 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; and 70 & over. The first male and female walkers will win prizes, as well as the first tourists, and the winning Fairmont and Gosling’s employees.