Hundreds are set to hit the road for the annual Cayman National Stride Against Cancer – an event that raises vital funds and awareness in the ongoing fight against cancer.
Hosted by the Cayman Islands Cancer Society, the event, based in two separate locations on the same date, offers multiple distances to accommodate various ages and fitness levels.
At the main event, participants will start and finish at Public Beach on West Bay Road. This location offers a 5K route turning around at the roundabout near the Fidelity Centre and a 10K route that turns at The Wharf Restaurant.
For runners seeking a greater challenge, the event includes a timed half-marathon consisting of two laps of the 10K course. This race begins at 5:30am and features timing mats at both ends of the course provided by Race Caribbean, with chipped bibs included in the race packets.
Starting at 7am, residents in North Side and the Eastern districts have a 5K participation option through the North Side Stride, which starts and finishes at Rum Point.
“Whether walking or running, the focus remains on participation, community and purpose,” said Dave O’Driscoll, head of operations at the Cayman Islands Cancer Society.
“Stride has brought together survivors, families, friends and supporters, all moving with a shared goal: to support those affected by cancer and to keep the conversation around prevention, early detection, and healthy living active and visible,” he added.
O’Driscoll said that, collectively, over 1,500 participants will be present at the event scheduled for Sunday, 25 Jan., and “hundreds more who’ve registered simply to donate to the cause.”
Funds raised through the event are allocated to the Cayman Islands Cancer Society’s core community efforts, including patient support services, education and outreach programmes, screenings, counselling and advocacy.
“Year after year, Stride has played a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and families affected by cancer in the Cayman Islands have access to care, information, and support when they need it most,” said O’Driscoll.
In addition to its fundraising goals, he added, “The event also continues to champion an active lifestyle as part of cancer prevention and overall well-being, while creating a safe and supportive space for conversation, remembrance, and hope.”
Registration is currently available online through the official Cayman Islands Cancer Society website or in person at their Cricket Square office in the Pavilion building, 2nd floor.
