Queen's Baton off the beaten track in Belize

Lying in the foothills of Belize’s Maya Mountains rests the ancient ruins of Caracol. In a Queen’s Baton Relay first, Her Majesty’s message was carried into the archaeological site hidden in the heart of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve where Belize’s western border greets Guatemala.

Occupied between 1200 bc and 650ad by the Maya people, today the ruins are home to countless snails that vindicate its modern name, Caracol, Spanish for Snail.

Sidestepping the resident snails, the Alamilla family from Belize City carried the Baton during their exploration of the ancient metropolis.

With a passion for cycling – Belize’s most popular individual sport – the family saw a unique cross-training opportunity in climbing up and down the ruin’s steep steps.
Taking turns, they carried the Baton far above the forest canopy.

While cycling continues to gain momentum with the mainstream, one expat is optimistic about the futures of a newly arrived sport to Belize, rugby sevens. Tony Gillings is committed to carving a space for the sport.

The Londoner moved to Belize in 2014 with the sole purpose of introducing rugby to the Commonwealth’s only Central American nation.

” I thought it was crazy that a former British colony didn’t play rugby, it must be the only one! All of our regional neighbours play rugby. Sport has never really been high on the agenda in Belize, and there is untapped talent in this country.”

So far, Gilling’s efforts have paid off. Three years of perseverance have already produced four men’s teams. he is now looking to introduce the sport in schools.

While Belize’s inexperienced rugby sevens teams may not be ready to qualify for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, Gillings trust there is enough support and interest in the community to keep things moving.

” There are kids of all ages looking for an organised activity to get involved in. Rugby brings to them solidarity, passion, integrity, teamwork, discipline and resilience. It builds the character of individuals on and off the field.

While in Belize the baton took part in a cycling and running relay from the airport through Belize City to the House of Culture, where it was officially welcomed by the Governor General.

Gold Coast Magazine

Gold Coast Magazine

Our in-house team and affiliates bringing you the latest in Culture, Lifestyle and Entertainment from around the globe and the great stories of the Gold Coast

In a surprising turn of events, Black Hops Brewery announced today via social media that the company would be entering voluntary administration

In a surprising turn of events, Black Hops Brewery announced today via social media that the company would be entering voluntary administration

Widespread media reports are announcing the cancellation of the 2024 Splendour in the Grass Event just two weeks after they announced this years lineup.

Widespread media reports are announcing the cancellation of the 2024 Splendour in the Grass Event just two weeks after they announced this years lineup.

Uncover the secret to an unforgettable Easter feast with Elk Espresso's tantalizing Bird's Nest Hotcakes - your taste buds won't want to miss this!

Uncover the secret to an unforgettable Easter feast with Elk Espresso’s tantalizing Bird’s Nest Hotcakes – your taste buds won’t want to miss this!

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Zanthii Communications' Director, Joanne Rahn, and her mother, Marilyn West, recently hosted their 18th consecutive Sovereign Islands &

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Zanthii Communications’ Director, Joanne Rahn, and her mother, Marilyn West, recently hosted their 18th consecutive Sovereign Islands & Surrounds Monthly Community Luncheon

With the Rip Curl Pro on the horizon, Bells Beach is set to become the ultimate battleground for surfing's finest, where adrenaline-pumping action and perfect

With the Rip Curl Pro on the horizon, Bells Beach is set to become the ultimate battleground for surfing’s finest, where adrenaline-pumping action and perfect waves collide across the easter break

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Boo Seeka as we explore the creative process behind his latest album 'Midnight Highlight' and gear up for

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Boo Seeka as we explore the creative process behind his latest album ‘Midnight Highlight’ and gear up for his nationwide tour

Discover Act of Treason: Australia's pioneering agave spirit reshaping the global landscape. Read more about its innovative journey in Queensland

Discover Act of Treason: Australia’s pioneering agave spirit reshaping the global landscape. Read more about its innovative journey in Queensland

Dine amidst nature at Farm & Co Restaurant in the Tweed Valley. Offering farm-fresh, organic eats on a 52-acre farm, it's a perfect mix of

Dine amidst nature at Farm & Co Restaurant in the Tweed Valley. Offering farm-fresh, organic eats on a 52-acre farm, it’s a perfect mix of rustic charm and gourmet flavours.