Ms. Reddy has lived in the Virgin Islands for more than 30 years. The Blenheim Trust director in Road Town has competed here and abroad in a variety of competitions, including running races, triathlons, regattas, cycling and swimming. Ms. Reddy also organises the Blenheim Trust running series.
What made you get involved with running?
With the pressures of family and work, it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of inactivity and poor diet. As a young professional focused on a career of long hours at work, study 
What’s it like to be a road race director? Why did you want to do it and what does it involve?
One of the things I love about the BVI is how we walk with titans. Amongst the many wonderful people in the BVI, I met Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway and Stephanie Russ-Penn, who along with others have helped take track and field onto the world stage. Dean wanted to promote road racing, so we can have BVI athletes in distance races, and secondly for mass participation, health and fitness. A problem is finding volunteers. Eleanor Morgan and Tricia Kinkead often rise early to officiate. We would love to encourage more people to get involved in race management. I have completed the IAAF course measurement workshop and can measure road races in accordance with international standards. So we can be ready for when we start setting world records.
How many marathons have you run?
I have run 10 marathons. I’d love to coach a BVI lady to challenge the BVI national record. Velma George took down a longstanding record in New York in 2006, which is now four hours and 41 minutes. There may be a record attempt in January at the Disney Marathon. If not, then the premier is going to have to give me a passport.
What is the most challenging event you have competed in?
The Chicago Marathon: flat, fast and a fabulous city. This was my third attempt at a Boston qualifying time: By mile 20 I knew I had it, albeit there was still an hour to go running exactly at pace while crying. It hurt.
What do you enjoy more: organising or competing?
I have never been fast enough to compete at the front, though one of my achievements is third place in my age group at the Ironman 70.3 Latin American Championship in Panama. I keep that one polished. There is a great camaraderie on both sides.
What is your favourite competition in the Virgin Islands?
The HLSCC two-mile series for the social aspect, and the BVI and VG Half Marathons for the challenge and the huge potential they have to grow into major events. Of course, the Blenheim 5k series, as I work with wonderful people who all put a little bit into it.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start running seriously?
Hit the road, Jack! Wear a good pair of shoes and get moving. Start by time: Don’t worry about pace or distance. Join in the race series throughout the year and get support. Give me a call: I love to talk running and have books on how to train for any distance. Finding a friend is a great motivator. You won’t skip a session if your buddy is standing on the road.
When you aren’t competing, what do you like to do?
Compete in something else. Rest is very important and a great excuse to catch up on eight hours. I’m a closet artist, painter; crafts and knitting. I am taking orders for knitted Christmas tree angels right now.
Since you have been in the territory, how has the road racing scene changed?
Last year, 800 people took part in road racing, so I’m delighted that more and more people are involved. This does not count all the people now up and walking in the morning. And one new aspect will be increasing participation in power walking races. There are also a lot more people involved in the international marathons and fundraising.
Last question. You always do a cartwheel when you finish a race. Why did you start doing it, and how do you maintain the energy?
I should be running faster, I think. Cartwheels are easier than distance running, so I know I can always finish on my hands. Could there be any way to have more fun? Everyone should put on their shoes and move. Then learn to do a cartwheel.
Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Todd VanSickle.
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