The spirit of Derek Larner ran strong through the Cayman Islands on 26 Oct. as more than 700 runners, walkers and supporters came together for the second annual Derek Larner Memorial Run.
Following a January 2025 start, the event shifted its tradition to October, which is now its new home and a secured spot on the annual Cayman racing schedule.
The day was marked by participation across all three distances, with around 70 runners taking on the half marathon from South Terminal Waterfront. The 5K and 10K races began an hour later from Cricket Square.
All routes converged back at Cricket Square, creating a vibrant finish line atmosphere where families and friends cheered on participants, celebrating Larner’s enduring influence on the Cayman running community.
Race results
The 5K race saw a close finish for the male division, with Thomas Vaughan claiming first place in 17 minutes and 45 seconds. He was closely followed by Jake Vader in second at 17:57, and Luke Garbarino taking third with a time of 19:20.
In the female 5K, Aria Marriott finished first in 22:10. Una Walker secured second place at 22:37, and Ginny Harrison rounded out the top three with a time of 23:36.
Moving up to the 10K, Christian Henning was the fastest male runner, finishing in 36:54. David Milimo took second place at 40:55, with Ash Wright securing third in 43:16.
For the female 10K division, Elaine Anderson led the way, winning with a time of 45:51. Louise Carroll finished second at 51:05, and Rebekah Westin claimed third place with a time of 51:58.
The half marathon was won by Esmond Brown on the male side, who finished with a time of one hour, 23 minutes and six seconds. Andy Morrison followed closely behind in second at 1:24:01, while Abraham Whittaker placed third in 1:27:36.
For the half marathon women, Jalene Cruz took the top spot, clocking in at 1:34:11. She was followed by Emily Clarke in second at 1:39:14 and Oddy Grullon in third with a time of 1:47:14.
The half marathon relay was won by Victoria Hartley and John Bodden with a time of 2:19:17.
‘Derek Would Have Been So Proud’
“This year’s event also highlighted the strength of Cayman’s young running talent, with several top finishers under the age of 18 – a reflection of the thriving youth athletics culture Derek helped inspire,” said a Derek Larner Memorial Run press release.
The run continues its mission of giving back, with proceeds supporting Jasmine Palliative & Hospice Care and the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, two organisations providing essential care and support to those dealing with cancer and their families.
Following the inaugural event’s success in raising $16,000, this year’s total is expected to surpass that amount, with donations remaining open until the end of the week.
“It’s very uplifting to see the community come together in Derek’s memory,” said Laura Larner, Derek’s wife.
She noted that the event perfectly captures everything her husband stood for – “running, community, and giving back”.
“Seeing so many people out there, from kids to seasoned runners, was really special. Derek would have been so proud and delighted that many of the young runners he used to coach came out to run in his memory and that several of the race winners were under 18,” she added.
Race director and close friend of Derek’s, Trevor Murphy, echoed this sentiment saying, “The turnout this year was incredible. It’s overwhelming to see how Derek’s legacy keeps growing and inspiring more people every time.”
The next Derek Larner Memorial Run is set for October 2026, promising to continue its annual tradition and legacy.
