Spectators attending the grand finale of Belize’s iconic La Ruta Maya canoe race will be required to pay an entrance fee at the Grand Resort near Haulover Bridge, marking a significant shift in access policy for the annual event.
Roberto Harrison, Vice Chair of the La Ruta Maya Planning Committee, confirmed the implementation of the fee structure, explaining that the privately organized race operates through sponsorship agreements and management arrangements that necessitate cost recovery measures. “This is not a cheap race to run,” Harrison emphasized, noting that expenses for security deployment, traffic coordination, and crowd control remain substantial despite the venue change.
The decision follows expressed concerns from Belize Canoe Association Vice President Elvin Penner, who previously warned that monetary barriers could substantially reduce fan participation. “I believe, and I’m almost sure of this, there will be a pretty hefty charge to enter the grounds… which will cut back participation by a lot,” Penner told News Five last week.
While the final pricing structure remains undetermined, Harrison indicated the fee would align with charges implemented at other points along the race route, including the Burrel Boom bridge which has historically charged admission for one leg of the competition. The financial arrangement between Grand Resort and media partner RSV aims to enhance the event’s viability while minimizing operational costs, according to committee statements.
The race, sponsored by RF&G Insurance, represents one of Belize’s most cherished cultural sporting traditions, with the new access policy potentially altering the dynamic of public engagement for this national event.