Special Olympics Cayman Islands is set to host its largest annual fundraiser – the Golf Classic – on 23 Jan. at the North Sound Golf Club.
The event, now entering its 15th year, has raised approximately $700,000, a sum that has paved the way for numerous athletes to represent Cayman on the world stage in cities ranging from Athens, Los Angeles, Abu Dhabi and Berlin as well as the World Aquatics competition in Puerto Rico.
Value of funds
Louise Carroll, Special Olympics public relations and marketing director said, “The [event] sustains our local training programme, which runs six sessions each week across more than 10 sports, ensuring year-round development and inclusion for our athletes.”
“These funds will sustain our ongoing local programmes by providing essential sports equipment and uniforms, ensuring our athletes have the resources they need to train, compete, and succeed year-round,” she said.
Additionally, she said vital programmes such as Athlete Leadership, the Family Support Network, the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Unified Sports and the Young Athletes programme, are supported through the funds raised.
This year’s classic carries a particular weight as SOCI looks toward the future, specifically the upcoming Special Olympics World Summer Games in Santiago, Chile, scheduled for October 2027. Carroll states that the proceeds from the event will be directly funnelled into preparing and sending the national team to South America.
Furthermore, she shared that the funds will also fuel the modernisation of the organisation’s programmes “through the rollout of new sports management software, improving athlete registration, record keeping, and communications.”
A full day ahead
The event, which will include more than 150 golfers, will utilise a four-person scramble format, with teams teeing off in both morning and afternoon sessions.
The day is packed with engagement opportunities beyond the 18 holes, including a putting competition and various prizes, all supported by a dedicated team of volunteers.
“Entry includes golf carts, mulligans, and lunch, and the day wraps up with a celebratory evening featuring awards, raffles, prizes, and inspiring speeches – creating a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The event relies on the dedication of many committed volunteers to be successful,” Carroll concluded.
Those looking to contribute their time to this mission are encouraged to reach out to [email protected] to join the volunteer team.
