Zebalon McLean right on song from the start of the 2012 Road Running season with victory in Virgin Gorda. Photo: Todd Van Sickle

McLean, who ended 2011 with the prestigious and deserved Award along with being the Ceres 10K Champion and setting a National Record in the BVI Half Marathon, covered the three miles loop in 20 minutes .09 seconds. Emrol Amsterdam was 22 seconds back in second and local runner Merion Dainty finished 3rd.

Liz Ziegler was the first woman crossing the line in 27:37, with Samantha Hansen and Augusta Van Rensburg rounding out the top three.

“The race went very well and I was pleasantly surprised at the turn out,” event coordinator Casey McNutt said. “I expected 15-20 as I'd been active in getting the word out. Virgin Gorda is a fantastic community when it comes to getting out together. We have another 20 confirming for next race on February 4,” she added.

“Youth groups, businesses, walking groups, and families all pull together for a healthy community event and we're proud of each and every one.”

Final Results; Men: 1. Zebalon McLean, 20 minutes, 09 seconds. 2. Emrol Amsterdam, 20:22. 3. Meroin Dainty, 21:10. 4. Curwin Andrews, 21:10. 5. Maxford Pipe, 21:17. 6. Eric Mallet, 23:45. 7. Andrew Hansen, 24:41. 8. Roland Clifford, 27:35. 9. Seraphin Telemaque, 29:10. 10. Kory Gozjack, 29:29. 11. Marc "White Spider" Taggart, 32:19. 12. Lindsay Pereira, 32:36. 13. Laurent de Courtivron, 39:19. 14. Lance Hiesinger, 34:36. 15. Thomas Choblet, 34:53. 16. Ernst vanderPoll, 38:19. 17. Chadd Ziegler, 39:06. 18. Quacey Cooper 48:48.

Women: 1.Liz Ziegler, 27:37. 2. Samantha Hansen, 28:21. 3. Augusta VanRensburg, 30:22. 4. Anna Janczewska, 31:07. 5. Vivian Toro, 32:51. 6.Koenelia Grill, 34:55. 7. Maria Jose Mora, 38:17. 8. Maja Yde, 39:18. 9. Laura Hiesinger, 39:55.10. Michelle Hogarth, 40:38. 11. Christina Yates, 43:06. 12. Mace Marx, 47:41. 13. Charlotte Birkolsen, 49:24. 14.Hyacinth Telemaque, 49:24.15. Althea, 49:32:17. 16. Sharon Flax-Mars, 48:48.