Some of the island’s most talented young athletes are gearing up to compete in the Skyport Magic Mile, which is due to take place next Saturday at Flora Duffy Stadium.

At a press conference called to herald the return of the exciting event hosted by the Bermuda Pacers Track Club, one of their star young athletes, Gisele Reid-Rubaine, took to the microphone to outline her excitement.

“I have been running for the Bermuda Pacers Track Club for many years,” said the 9-year-old student at Harrington Sound Primary.

“Some of my favourite things about the Skyport Magic Mile is that you can come out, cheer for your friends and go to the Kids Zone.”

While the event is clearly a big hit with the athletes, it also resonates with sponsors and Ciara Eve, head of brand development and communications at Skyport, is thrilled with the continued support.

“If you’ve been to the stadium when the Skyport Magic Mile is under way, you know there’s an unmistakable energy that fills the air,” she said.

“It’s an energy created not only by the athletes, but by the families, supporters and the entire community that rallies around this event year after year.

“This year marks our seventh year being a part of the Magic Mile and it remains an honour for the Bermuda Skyport Corporation Limited to contribute to the legacy of such a meaningful tradition.

“Our commitment isn’t just about supporting today’s event, but about recognising and uplifting the people who have built it, sustained it and continue to champion it.

“We are passionate about being involved because the Magic Mile represents so much of what we care deeply about, supporting our youth in sport, in education and in overall wellbeing.

“This event touches all three in powerful ways. The athleticism on display, the partnerships that open doors for scholarship opportunities and the friendships, sometimes lifelong, that are formed through experiences like this.”

Kareem Richardson, the Security Associates chief operating officer, expressed his organisation’s desire to maintain its financial backing.

“We’ve been a sponsor for several years now and hopefully we will be for many more,” Richardson said.

“I also want to applaud the longevity of Bermuda Pacers Track Club for their ability to groom these young potential stars into fully fledged and focused track stars of the future.

“Security Associates is proudly sponsoring the Kids Zone at the Magic Mile and will ensure a safe place for our children to express themselves. It will be an area for friends and family to play while they churn on the seeds of our future track stars.”

BermudAir head of public relations and partnerships, Leanna Lambert, recalled participating in the race as a youngster.

“I have a personal connection to this event,” she said.

“My mother signed me up at the very tender age of 4. While I might not remember my placement, I do remember the excitement it felt crossing the finish line.

“At BermudAir, we believe in connecting communities and supporting the experiences that shape our next generation.

“That’s why we are proud to stand alongside Skyport, Pacers and all the partners who make this day possible.”

Sol Petroleum retail sales executive Che Barker urged Bermudians to come out in their numbers.

“We’re honoured to be part of this event, proud to support the runners and excited for everything this day represents,” he said.

“It’s a celebration of connection, community and the spirit that brings people together. It's a way for locals to get out and support our young athletes, I encourage everyone to come out and be part of this wonderful event.”