As part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) will hold a community-focused ultramarathon in January.
Organisers hope the UCCI 50th Anniversary Marathon, set for 11 Jan. 2026, will draw runners, walkers, families and corporate teams from across the Cayman Islands, to help commemorate “five decades of educational excellence”, the institution said in a press release.
The centrepiece of the event is the 50 kilometre (31 mile) ultramarathon, which starts at 5am, where the solo ultra runners will tackle five laps of a specially designed 10K George Town loop.
This distance, which can take anywhere from four to seven hours to complete depending on the runner’s experience and pace, makes the race one of the most significant endurance tests on the local running calendar.
For those who want the ultra experience without the solo mileage, the 50K relay option allows teams of five to each run a 10K segment, making the distance accessible to corporate teams, groups of friends and running clubs.
Additionally, the 25K half-ultra covers two-and-a-half loops, finishing near Warwick Drive along Seafarers Way, with a start time of 5am.
The 10K offers a single scenic loop through George Town, while the 5K fun run/walk provides a family-friendly route starting and ending at the UCCI campus on Olympic Way, off Walkers Road, with both races beginning at 6am.
Belinda Blessitt Vincent, UCCI event organiser and dean of business and finance, said in the press release, “Whether you’re tackling your first 5K or sharing a 50K relay with friends and colleagues, every step supports education, opportunity, and the next generation of Cayman talent.”
She added that the goal was to create a course that feels “achievable and enjoyable for everyone”, adding, “The beauty of this event is its inclusivity, whether you walk, run, or cheer from the sidelines, you’re part of the celebration.”
All proceeds from the marathon, including the option to donate directly here, will support UCCI’s educational programmes and student scholarships.
Early registration is encouraged to take advantage of early-bird pricing which is live until 31 Dec.
