DG 5K 2019 - From the eyes of the Brac

By Shakir Khan

Last Sunday Cayman Brac welcomed Deputy Governor, Honourable Franz Manderson and his wife to his annual, “DG - 5K, WALK/RUN EVENT”.

The morning was cool and residents commenced gathering on the grounds of the Cayman Brac Beach Resort from as early as 5:30. In fact, Adolphus Morgan who participates every year was first to arrive. As the morning progressed more and more residents began arriving. Also amongst the participants this year was His Excellency, The Governor, Mr. Martin Roper.

Co-ordinator of the event, Miss Ventisha Connolly, Personal Assistant to the Deputy Premier called all participants to starting line. Amongst them indeed was the Deputy Governor himself. After addressing the participants, and prayer being made, the Deputy Governor gave remarks to the anxious and excited ready to runners and walkers.

“Special good morning to all and especially, His Excellency, the Governor, Mr. Martin Roper. I am delighted to be here again for this event. It has become dear to me. It allows me to interact with you wonderful people. This event promotes the importance of being healthy and I am excited to be participating again.” Each participant was given a T-Shirt, emblazoned with the names of the event’s sponsors and the theme, “STRONGER TOGETHER.” After announcing the route for the event, excited participants got going. It was truly encouraging to witness the presence of children, teenagers, adults and even some retirees. There was a strong representation from Faith Hospital led by Dr. Velusamy.

After about 25 minutes those at the starting point began cheering the first returning participant who was Constable Greg Shepherd. To great applause and not far behind was His Excellency, the Governor.

There was also great cheering as the first youngster returning to the finish line was Triston Fergusson, and he was followed not long after by Garrison French. Karishma Seeram was the first female youth to cross the finish line, while the first adult female crossing the finish line was Mrs. Claudia Martin. The Deputy Governor and his wife crossed the finish line not long after. They were greeted with a great round of applause.

At the conclusion of the event everyone was praised for their participation and special gratitude was showered upon the sponsors: Platinum sponsors AppleBee, Gold and Silver Sponsors JemWorldwide and Kirkconnell Market for the Brac events. Thanks were also expressed to sponsors Butterfield Bank, Dart Company, Ernst and Young and Davenport.

Here were some of the remarks from participants:

Aldolphus, “I do this every year. It’s a great event to bring the citizens together.”

Carlos, “I enjoy this event every year. I admire the many young people who participate. Great undertaking by the Deputy Governor.”