Students, alumni, faculty and residents turned out in force for the 11th annual Hugh Cummings Memorial Run/Walk earlier this month to raise scholarship funding for students attending the International College of the Cayman Islands.
Raising more than $3,000, some 50 runners and walkers showed up before sunrise at the Grand Cayman campus in Newlands-Savannah and headed toward the Pedro St. James Castle and back.
The distance was about five kilometres.
The scholarship funds will be used to help financially-strapped students pay for tuition and books.
Event organiser and admissions director Anita Fausett-Khan said the event brings out a special sense of enthusiasm and community spirit.
“Even though it can be hard for some people to get up before dawn, it is so worthwhile once you get here,” Ms. Fausett-Khan said. “There is such a strong sense of community and energy walking among the group. And as you make the loop around Pedro Castle the sun is rising so that it feels like your body and spirit are being re-charged.”
This year’s memorial walk was particularly meaningful as the unstable economy has made it difficult for some students to continue their education.
ICCI President John Cummings said a key part of what the school has stood for since it was established 40 years ago is being accessible to all academically ready students.
“Many students have lost their jobs or are unable to find full-time employment, but they are still working hard to finish their degrees,” Mr. Cummings said. “The scholarship funds from the memorial walk can be just the financial support they need to help see them through.”
Runner David Jackson, who completed the distance in 35 minutes, said the route is unique because it is one of the few events not conducted along West Bay Road.
“What makes this run so different is that I get to see the ocean and there is not much traffic, so it is peaceful,” Mr. Jackson said. “This is my second year and I plan to do it every year.”
This year’s design for the memorial walk T-shirt featured the local saying ‘Come so walk wid me nah!’ which means ‘Let’s come on a walk together.’ The T-shirts were sponsored by Cayman National, which has been a long supporter of the college.
“We are pleased to continue to support the Hugh Cummings Memorial Walk, which specifically aims to provide educational opportunities for students who otherwise may not be in a financial position to continue their education,” said Claudia Welds, Cayman National senior executive of corporate communications.
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