Lovitta Foggo, the sports minister, has hailed the outstanding achievements of this year’s Bermuda Half Marathon Derby podium finishers at a special award ceremony.

Lamont Marshall won the men’s title for the second straight year and third time overall while Rose-Anna Hoey captured her second title among the women’s field.

Marshall finished just over three minutes ahead of runner-up Sean Trott and Hoey more than two minutes ahead of second place Martina Olcheski-Bell among the women.

Former North Village and Bermuda midfielder Sammy DeGraff was third overall while past winner Deon Breary rounded off the women’s podium.

“As the Minister responsible for Community and Cultural Affairs and Youth and Sports, this is a great occasion for me because it brings together two aspects that I am very passionate about — the preservation and celebration of our heritage and supporting our athletes at all levels,” Minister Foggo said.

“This evening we’re here to celebrate Bermudian Excellence — which was this year’s Heritage Month theme. And it’s fitting that we recognise those of you who were first in your fields; those of you who reached personal and sporting bests; and those of you who strove for excellence.

“On Bermuda Day, I had the pleasure of being at the start of the race to extend best wishes to the runners. It was such an energetic and lively atmosphere. And as minister, I’m gratified that I was able to experience that.”

The minister thanked the Bermuda Half Marathon Derby organising committee and lead sponsors Argus for ensuring this year’s event was another success and also stressed Government’s commitment to supporting the island’s various sporting bodies.

“Please know that this Government is doing what it can to ensure that it provides the necessary support for all of its sporting bodies,” she said.

“Whether you are a distance runner, footballer, cricketer, sailor, tennis player, triathlete, swimmer or in track and field — we understand the sacrifices you must make on a daily basis to excel in your discipline. And we will continue to work hard in doing what we can help you succeed.”