Canoe Association Opposes La Ruta Maya Finish Line Change

On Tuesday night we told you that the Belize La Ruta Maya Committee is discussing a significant change to the last leg of the race. Vice-Chair Roberto Harrison told News Five that discussions are underway to have the race culminate at the Grand Resort near the Haulover Creek Bridge instead of the BelCan Bridge. And while a final decision is yet to be made, it has sparked chatter online. So, we reached out to the Vice President of the Belize Canoe Association, Elvin Penner, for his thoughts.  We also heard from one paddler who has participated in the race for the past thirteen years. He says this will be his last year if the committee decides to change the finish line.

 

On the Phone: Carlos Linares, Paddler, La Ruta Maya

“It is a last-minute thing they are doing. We were not notified. We as paddlers we have a voice and opinion. It is all about the tradition for the race, what it means, history. It is being lost. They are taking away all the excitement, especially for the last day. Everyone know the finish is at the Belcan Bridge in Belize City and for it to be a last-minute call and not considering the paddlers, the spectators, they are doing their own decision. Honestly, Ruta Maya has changed so much. They are changing at the finishing line, charging people to come and witness the race. Like for example in Burrell Boom they purchased a property and still charging. Like fans and family, imagine my kids have to pay and come to watch me race. Years ago none of that use to be.”

 

On the Phone: Elvin Penner, Vice President, Belize Canoe Association

“The paddler’s concern is twofold, if the change is going to be made for their benefits, then they need to see those benefits. So far, every single la Ruta Maya, since 1998 I believe it started the winning team, the winner of the race, more years than not, the winner has been determined in that channel, after you enter that channel, because that channel is a whole different world. The water is very dense and that is where you separate the men from the boys. Or, as in recent years, that is where you separate the boys from the men. It will definitely take away a good half hour of the climax of the race. The race use to climax entering that channel. Ti would take that away. But of course the race is going to be shorter, which may be good, because a lot of people from the time the first day is half over they cant wait for the race to be finished.”

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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