From High-Paced Pastimes to Winding Down at Wilderness Beach – An Interview with Susy Piscione Maidwell (Tri-Sport)
Energy As A Family Affair
A household name on both sides of the island for active residents as well as visitors is Tri-Sport. In an attempt to explore what intrinsically drives the most active sports company on St. Maarten / St. Martin, we spoke with co-founder Susan Piscione Maidwell. In this interview, she shares some of her own favorite pastimes and motivations.
Where did it all begin for Susy? “I came to St. Maarten at the age of three weeks in 1971 after my parents, who had moved to the island in the 60s, decided that I would be born abroad. I opened the bicycle shop in Simpson Bay along with my dad, Malcolm Maidwell, back in March of 1992.”
Her father remains a source of inspiration in everything she does. “Through him, I have learned that our goal in life is very simple: be kind, be fair, and never stop being a productive asset to your community.”
Over time, the company grew into a full-scale active sports center offering water and cycling activities, scavenger hunts, shore excursions for cruise passengers, and events. “The absolute best part of working at Tri-Sport is that it is a very positive and healthy environment. Customers come to us to improve or maintain their health and well-being. We love encouraging newcomers to the sports of running, triathlon, cycling, and swimming. Every day is different, and because we also organize events and training sessions, we are never ever quiet.”
One of their events is her favorite moment of the year. “The ‘Round the Island Relay Race’ brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate St. Maarten’s Day on November 11 by running around the island in teams. It is a truly special experience.”
Off-Time Tri-Thrills
Active sports are not just products the company sells. Susy, as Susan is best known as, lives them herself in her private time as well. “Every Tuesday I hike the Ravine Trail at Bellevue, which follows an old riverbed and finishes at the top of St. Peters Hill. About three-quarters of the way up there are ropes to help you climb the final section, and it’s just beautiful. When you look back, the lagoon spreads out below you. It’s a great workout and so peaceful.”
Another favorite spot is Pointe du Bluff. “It’s a small deserted island that you can walk to through the water from Belle Creole. There is a trail that goes around it where you can spot the old ruins of the leprosy hospital as well as amazing osprey nests. It’s a really magical place.”
In line with her company’s name, weekly activities go beyond hiking alone. “The west side of Mullet Bay Beach is still my favorite place to swim. We do laps there on Friday afternoons and the water is always so clear and calm.” The location also reminds her of her island youth. “Mullet Bay Beach back in the 80s was heaven for a teenager—lots of music, modeling shows, and roller skating on the tennis court near the parking area.”
There are also lesser-known beaches she explores often. “Wilderness Beach is my wild escape. As you hike down to the beach on the Froussard Trail that starts in Anse Marcel, the view before you is stunning—powder-white sand with Anguilla and Tintamarre on the horizon.”
The energetic hobbies continue. “Cycling along the eastern side of the island on Oyster Pond Road is fun too. There are so many options. But in my private time, most are off the beaten track. St. Maarten is a bustling place, so my favorite spots tend to be quiet and peaceful.”
Recharging Energy
Of course, an active life requires a steady resupply of calories. “I love baking. My new favorite recipe is a French apple cake with aged rum—just yum!” she laughs. “My team members at Tri-Sport are my guinea pigs when it comes to trying out new recipes.”
Apart from homemade delicacies, she also enjoys sampling the island’s culinary scene. “My new favorite restaurant is Aloha on Orient Beach, run and owned by a group of young St. Martiners whose family also owns my other favorite dinner spot, O’ Plongeoir in Marigot. The service is excellent and the food is so tasty. Prices are also reasonable, unlike many places on Orient Beach. Top Carrot in Simpson Bay is still my favorite lunch spot—their specials are very good.”
When the sun sets, her drink of choice is clear. “Ti’ Punch all the way! This traditional drink of the French islands is my staple: agricole rum from Guadeloupe, a quarter piece of lime, and some brown sugar or cane syrup.”
Island Insights
Apart from leisure activities, what is it that really makes St. Maarten special?
“What I love most about the island is that it offers the whole package—our crystal-clear waters, our diverse population, the food, the weather, all of it.”
But even paradise has its challenges. “I wish hotels, real estate companies, and car rental agencies would advise visitors about the traffic situation. It’s so easy to get around if you know the times and directions to avoid. So many people end up sitting in their cars for hours trying to get to dinner or a show during peak traffic times. It’s such a shame.” However, she sees a silver lining. “On a more positive note, many people who are stuck in traffic might discover the fantastic hiking opportunities on the island.”
Despite the occasional high-season congestion, she believes the island’s strengths outweigh its weaknesses. “At its core, we are still the Friendly Island. People are authentic, open, and warm. If they are not friendly, then they are not from St. Maarten.”
She points to cultural ambassadors spreading this island love. “Take the Orange Grove band. Lead singer Michael Maidwell and guitarist Jacob Streefkerk, both St. Maarten-born artists, are incredibly talented. Along with their bandmates from the Netherlands and Aruba, they have traveled the world performing their original music. Their songs should be playing on every radio station. They deserve recognition for putting St. Maarten on the map in places as far away as Japan and India.”
Lower-Paced Itineraries
Apart from the energetic activities offered by Tri-Sport and others, what are some in-the-know ways to slow down?
“It’s impossible to choose just one. I would recommend a stroll along the waterfront in Marigot with a stop at a traditional French bakery for almond croissants and cappuccino, followed by a hike up to Fort Louis, which offers spectacular views over Marigot and Terres Basses.”
“A sailing day trip to Tintamarre would be another favorite. You can swim with turtles and sometimes even spot dolphins along the way.”
For those interested in history, she adds: “Fort Amsterdam is very important historically, as many battles took place there. There is also the secret Moho Rock, located along a trail heading up to Pic Paradis from French Quarter. The rock features circular engravings carved by the Taíno Indians more than a thousand years ago.”
For shopping, she recommends heading to the One Love, One Life, One Island shop in Hope Estate. “It’s a must-visit for beautiful St. Maarten gifts.”
As for her perfect ending to the day, she would return to Wilderness Beach.
“With a good book, my goggles, and a bottle of wine… I mean water.”
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