More than 700 runners, walkers and supporters came together on Sunday, 26 October, for the second Derek Larner Memorial Run in Grand Cayman.
First held in January, the event, sponsored by Artex Risk Solutions (Cayman) Ltd, has found its new home in October and is set to become an annual fixture on the race calendar.
The run honours the legacy of the late athlete, coach and mentor Derek Larner, whose passion for running, youth athletics and community spirit left a lasting mark on the islands.
Proceeds again support Jasmine Palliative and Hospice Care and the Cayman Islands Cancer Society (CICS) – two organisations that provide essential care to those dealing with cancer.
The inaugural event raised CI$16,000, and this October’s total is expected to surpass that amount. Donations can be made until the end of this week at racecaribbean.net
In a press release on 28 October, Laura Larner, Derek’s wife, said it was very uplifting to see the community come together in her late husband’s memory.
“This event captures everything Derek 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.
“Thank you to everyone who ran, volunteered and supported the event – it felt like a truly fitting way to honour Derek’s memory and continue his legacy.”
About 70 runners took on the half marathon, which started at 5:30am from South Terminal Waterfront, while the 5K and 10K began an hour later from Cricket Square.
All races finished at Cricket Square, where friends, families and supporters gathered to cheer participants and celebrate Derek’s influence on Cayman’s running community.
The event also highlighted the strength of Cayman’s young running talent, with several top finishers under the age of 18.
“The turnout this year was incredible,” said Trevor Murphy, race director and close friend of Derek’s.
“It’s overwhelming to see how Derek’s legacy keeps growing and inspiring more people every time.
“A huge thank you to our sponsors, volunteers and everyone who took part – we can’t wait to build on this momentum next October.”
The next Derek Larner Memorial Run will nest take place in October 2026.
More information can be found at @DerekLarnerMemorialRun on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, or on racecaribbean.net
Race results
5K
Male: First – Thomas Vaughan (17:45), Second – Jake Vader (17:57), Third – Luke Garbarino (19:20)
Female: First – Aria Marriott (22:10), Second – Una Walker (22:37), Third – Ginny Harrison (23:36)
10K
Male: 1st Christian Henning (36:54), Second – David Milimo (40:55), Third – Ash Wright (43:16)
Female: 1st Elaine Anderson (45:51), Second – Louise Carroll (51:05), Third – Rebekah Westin (51:58)
Half Marathon
Male: 1st Esmond Brown (1:23:06), Second – Andy Morrison (1:24:01), Third – Abraham Whittaker (1:27:36)
Female: 1st Jalene Cruz (1:34:11), Second – Emily Clarke (1:39:14), Third – Oddy Grullon (1:47:14)
Half Marathon Relay: Victoria Hartley and John Bodden (2:19:17)
