The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) 2013 Highland Spring Race Series' schedule is out and running in the Virgin Gorda leg is set to begin on Saturday September 14, 2013. Image: provided

The first race on VG (September 14) is quickly followed by the opener on Tortola, scheduled for September 21. Photo: provided

All races begin with a registration at 6.30 A.M. and then the start time will be 7 A.M.. As in previous years, the various categories include: OPEN One mile (for under-9 only), OPEN 2 mile, and Cross Country 2 mile (Teams). Photo: provided

According to Race Director Stephanie Russ-Penn and the Student Life and Special Events Department at HLSCC, "an invitation is extended to the general public to participate in the eighteenth year of the HLSCC Race Series. Everyone is urged to be a part of this wholesome community event by participating in the open, groups or cross country categories."

The first race on VG (September 14) is quickly followed by the opener on Tortola, scheduled for September 21.

All races begin with a registration at 6.30 A.M. and then the start time will be 7 A.M.. As in previous years, the various categories include: OPEN One mile (for under-9 only), OPEN 2 mile, and Cross Country 2 mile (Teams)

The organizers have also made it known that they would welcome volunteers to help with the races. However, one person who won't need any second invitation to be involved will be defending 2012 Virgin Gorda champion, Maxford Pipe.

The seven-time champion of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College/Highland Spring Race Series on Virgin Gorda, Maxford Pipe, stated his intention to try and complete the double this year "Winning is a nice feeling that I'm getting used to, but as a fresh challenge I would love to run on Tortola and take on winning the double," he stated

Pipe led the way to the close of the Virgin Gorda leg of the 17th edition of the series. He had a great run of 11minutes 10.72 seconds, but a disappointing finish as he was eyeing the course record of 10 minutes 32.8 seconds set by Renold Brown in the early years.

Pipe, who also said he was very happy with the win but wanted to run faster, noted that "the pace of the first mile was good...but I needed a faster pace setter to bring me home even quicker."

There would be numerous challenges to overcome if Pipe was to fulfill his dream, not least of which are ferry times, pre-race preparation and cost. However, Pipe is a driven man used to success and not giving up, so don't be surprised if there's a new name on the Tortola Leg Trophy in 2013.

Complete 2013 Race Series Schedule below:

Virgin Gorda

(Venue: Campus in Valley, Virgin Gorda)

14 September

5 October

19 October

Tortola Series

(Venue: Campus at Paraquita Bay)

21 September

12 October

26 October

16 November