The highly anticipated M2M Road Race made an exhilarating return to Magens Bay Beach on Saturday, drawing runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a day of competition and camaraderie. Hosted by the Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA), the event once again showcased the power of community and athletic excellence.
This year’s race was particularly memorable, as both the male and female winners shattered previous course records. Connor MacKelvey claimed first place overall in the men’s division, finishing with an incredible time of 00:40:44, while Elise Yoshioka dominated the women’s division, setting a new record of 00:42:43.
Reflecting on his performance, MacKelvey was thrilled not only to secure a victory but also to bring his Antilles School athletes to compete and support Montessori’s athletic program.
“We’re working toward a common goal — to help our athletes improve while supporting the community,” he said. He praised the event’s organization and course design, especially the closed roads and rolling hills, which made for a safe yet demanding race. He also highlighted how the event fostered a strong running community, with many competitors participating in a three-race trifecta — the Waterfront 10K, M2M, and Eight Tough Miles on St. John. “The energy was incredible — runners were cheering for each other along the course, and everyone was in good spirits at the finish line,” he added.
Yoshioka shared a similar sentiment. Since moving to St. Thomas, running has become a key part of her life, providing both fitness and a strong sense of community. “Running is so simple—all you need are shoes, and you show up. It has built such a great community for me here,” she stated. Yoshioka is actively involved in the St. Thomas Run Club, a public Facebook group where she posts weekly running schedules. The club meets four days a week, typically at 6 a.m., with Saturday sessions at 5:30 a.m. at locations like Magens Bay or Brewers Bay.
The 1K Kids Fun Run gave younger participants (ages 10 and under) the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing, with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd fueling their determination. Shanna, mother of 1K winner Arianna, shared how running has become a way of life for their family.
“Arianna is eight and already a passionate and competitive runner,” she said, highlighting her daughter’s dedication to track and field and cross country. With a big brother who has also excelled in the sport, running has become a family tradition they love and support together. “We’re a running family — it’s something we truly enjoy,” she added.
The awards ceremony honored top finishers, celebrating their endurance, determination, and encouragement that inspired the community. The festivities continued with a beach picnic, where attendees enjoyed food, drinks, music, and post-race celebrations. Beyond the fun, the event remained dedicated to a meaningful cause — proceeds directly benefited the VIMSIA Athletics Department, supporting youth athletic programs that foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.
The success of the M2M Road Race was made possible by the generous support of local sponsors, including Elan Insurance, First Bank VI, Alpine, the USVI Department of Tourism, MSI Building Supply, Spyglass Capital, Brian Moseley & Associates, Inc., International Private Bank, International Capital & Management Company, St. Thomas Restaurant Group, ACE Hardware, Caribbean Risk Group, Michael L. Sheesley, LLC, Caribbean Chiropractic Center, Magens Bay Authority, Merchants Commercial Bank, Rodriguez Auto Parts, United Resources, Business Basics VI, The Paint Depot, and the Nagi Family. Their contributions played a crucial role in making the event a success, supporting both the race and VIMSIA Athletics Department’s mission to foster youth athletic development in the Virgin Islands.
