Community Unites for Second Annual Robert Hamaty Memorial 5K in Celebration of World Heart Day

Over 100 participants came together at dawn to honor the late Capt. Robert Hamaty’s legacy and promote cardiovascular health.

The Cayman community comes together to encourage healthy lifestyles and celebrate World Heart Day

George Town, Grand Cayman (29 September 2024) – The Cayman Heart Foundation (CHF), in partnership with Tortuga Rum Company, hosted the second annual Robert Hamaty Memorial 5K on Sunday, 29 September, commemorating World Heart Day. Over 100 participants came together at dawn to honor the late Capt. Robert Hamaty’s legacy and promote cardiovascular health.

Capt. Hamaty, a passionate advocate for heart health and recipient of a heart transplant in 1996, was instrumental in advancing transplant laws and procedures in the Cayman Islands and the Caribbean. 

Left to Right:Hon.Deputy Governor Franz Manderson poses with Miss Universe Cayman Islands Raegan Rutty

Monique Hamaty-Simmonds, daughter of the late Capt. Robert Hamaty, thanked the community for turning out to support the Cayman Heart Foundation and honor her father’s legacy.

“On behalf of my brother Basil and myself, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the community in Cayman for their incredible support of the 2nd annual Robert Hamaty Memorial 5K. Our hearts are full, knowing that so many came together in memory of our father, a heart transplant recipient and lifelong philanthropist. We are deeply touched by the continued efforts of Mrs. Suzy Soto and the Cayman Heart Foundation in promoting heart health and helping others. Thank you all for honoring our father’s legacy, and we look forward to joining you next year. Your support means the world to us and to every heart across our islands.” Mrs. Hamaty-Simmonds said.

Volunteers pause for a pose at the registration table

Tortuga Rum Company, as the presenting sponsor, continues to champion his commitment to heart health through their ongoing partnership with the Cayman Heart Foundation.

“It is an honor for us at Tortuga Rum Company to carry forward the legacy of our Founder, Capt. Robert Hamaty, in promoting heart health. His tireless advocacy and personal journey continue to inspire us all. This event is a testament to the power of community and partnership in raising awareness for cardiovascular health, and we are proud to support the Cayman Heart Foundation in this meaningful cause” Mrs. Natalie Porter, Head of Marketing & Communications at Tortuga Rum Company, said.

A beautiful way to start World Heart Day

Despite an early morning thunderstorm, the event saw enthusiastic participation as families, friends, and colleagues gathered for the heart-healthy 5K run/walk. Registration began at 6 a.m. on The Paseo in Camana Bay, with participants eager to kick off the event. Along the scenic route, hydration stations provided by Baptist Health kept runners refreshed. Tortuga offered post-race refreshments, including snacks and a raffle, while the wellness tent—supported by Doctor’s Hospital—provided complimentary blood pressure checks.

Hon. Deputy Governor Franz Manderson and Miss Universe Cayman Islands Reagan Rutty, both advocates for heart health and physical activity, were among the notable attendees.

Board Member and event organiser Elyse Helfrecht with friends Ela Ryan Dani Capizano Victoria Coleman and Tash McTaggart pose with the youngest finisher, Finley McTaggart

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, partners, and all who participated, making this event a resounding success,” said Andrew Vincent, Cayman Heart Foundation chairman.

All smiles after the Robert Hamaty Memorial 5K

Special thanks to our sponsors:

• Presenting Sponsor: Tortuga Rum Company
• Silver Sponsor: Ministry of Health & Wellness
• Bronze Wellness Sponsor: Doctor’s Hospital
• Bronze Sponsors: Health City Cayman Islands, Health Services Authority
• Water Station Sponsor: Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute
• Media Sponsor: Radio Cayman

Additionally, the event featured generous contributions from Jacques Scott, Fosters, Ryde Cayman, Seven Mile Burgers, Seven Mile Greens, the Market Street Group, One Heart Yoga & Apothecary, and Mar Candles Studio.

About Cayman Heart Foundation: The Cayman Heart Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting educating the community around heart health and providing resources and educating the public to prevent cardiovascular diseases and stroke in the Cayman Islands.