Distance runner Dennis Mbelenzi has embraced the true “spirit of the island” by accepting a personal apology from motorcyclist Willis Dill, following a bizarre navigational error that cost Mbelenzi the Goslings “Rum to the Beach” title.
The two men met at Mbelenzi’s workplace on Monday after Dill sought out the athlete to express regret for inadvertently leading him off-course. Mbelenzi, who held a dominant lead in the 7.13-mile race, had followed Dill’s motorcycle up the punishing Southampton Princess Hill instead of continuing straight onto Lighthouse Hill.
The mix-up occurred due to the absence of an official lead marshal at that stage of the race. Dill, a member of the public who was simply tracking the leader’s progress, admitted the lack of official guidance was “strange” and never intended to misdirect the runner.
The detour allowed defending champion Philip Woollins to pounce, securing victory in 42:54, while a frustrated Mbelenzi fell well out of the podium places.
“A very gracious Mr. Dill came to see me this morning,” Mbelenzi told IslandStats. “I’m very humbled by his act. He went out of his way to see me, and for that, I truly appreciate it. It is one more reason I love Bermuda and its people.”
Mbelenzi now turns his focus to this Friday’s Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge, where he remains a top contender for international honors.
