The annual Irish Jog is approaching and is guaranteed another huge participation of over 1,000 runners and walkers.
As well as the elite runners like Dominic Corbin, James Murray, Conrad Proud, Greg Meaker, Derek Larner, Claire Critchley, Tahj Lewis, Leslie-Ann Daley, Tiffany Cole and Jason Saunders, a host of casual runners, walkers, children and even dogs will turn out en masse for this spectacular emerald green event on Monday Mar. 17, St Patrick’s Day.
Many will come dressed for the occasion in suspenders, wigs, luminous socks, assorted costumes and few leprechauns are likely to make an appearance too.
The 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Irish Jog starts at 5:30 p.m. at Grand Cayman Beach Suites. The 3.1 mile course follows the cart path around the Britannia golf course and villas. The entry fee is $10 per person and all proceeds raised from this year’s event will be donated to the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre. Last year, the money raised for the Sunrise Adult Training Centre was $10,838.
Corbin won in a time of 17 minutes, 28 seconds last year, way ahead of second placed Greg Meaker. Leslie-Ann Daley was amongst the fastest women to finish in an event more about fun than competition. The Irish Jog mascot was there again to entertain everyone and many warmed to the Irish theme in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.
The jog is co-sponsored each year by Butterfield Bank and Grand Cayman Beach Suites and has become one of Cayman’s most anticipated fun run/walk, attracting locals and overseas participants of all ages and abilities.
Corbin said, “I’m not in the best shape due to injury, but I’m confident I’ll be able to defend my title. The course has lots of twists and turns so it’ll be interesting to see how my knee holds up.”
The last race he competed in was Off the Beaten track last week. “I helped out the CML Coastbusters last minute and ran the fastest leg of the day. So winning the Valentine’s Mile and fastest leg over five miles in my current condition, the 5k shouldn’t be too bad.”
If Corbin does the Irish Jog, he will be mindful of James Murray who finished second last year and Jason Saunders.
“Jason seems to win the 5k’s when I’m not around, so you never know, it may well be a competitive race,” Corbin added. He loves the Irish Jog route.
“The course is interesting, although it has many bends, the views are great compared to road races. I also enjoyed the golf buggy leading the way, maybe this year I’ll try racing him instead. Ha ha.”
Group registration is also encouraged. Jog participants will receive a T-shirt, race number and have the chance to win many fabulous spot prizes awarded on a draw basis.
Prizes range from water sport excursions, to dinners for two and spa services. There will be free hats, face stickers, wigs and other fun wear for everyone. Complimentary refreshments will be available after the event.
Registration takes place at Butterfield House, 68 Fort Street, on Thursday, Mar. 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Friday, Mar. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Registration is also at Britannia Restaurant and Golf Course on Saturday, Mar. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Mar. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on the day of the event from 9 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
For more information, visit www.ky.butterfieldgroup.com or call Rebecca Ebanks on 815-7797.
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