Students, alumni, faculty and community members turned out for the 11th annual Hugh Cummings Memorial Run/Walk last weekend to raise money for the scholarship fund at the International College of the Cayman Islands.

Raising more than $3,000, some 50 runners and walkers showed up before sunrise at the campus in Newlands-Savannah and headed toward the Pedro St. James Castle and back, about 5 km. The scholarship funds will be used to assist financially strapped students pay for tuition and books.

Event organizer and admissions director Anita Fausett-Khan said the Memorial Run/Walk brings out a special sense of enthusiasm and community spirit.

“Even though it can be hard for some people to get up before dawn, it is so worthwhile once you get here,” said Ms. Fausett-Khan. “There is such a strong sense of community and energy walking among the group. And as you make the loop around Pedro Castle the sun is rising so that it feels like your body and spirit are being re-charged.”

This year’s Memorial Walk is particularly meaningful as the unstable economy has made it difficult for some students to continue their education and finish their degrees. A key part of what the International College has stood for since it was established 40 years ago is being accessible to all students who are academically ready, said International College President John Cummings, PhD.

“Many students have lost their jobs or are unable to find full-time employment, but they are still working hard to finish their degrees,” said Dr. Cummings. “The scholarship funds from the Memorial Walk can be just the financial support they need to help see them through.”

Avid runner David Jackson, who finished with a 35-minute time, said this Memorial Run/Walk is unique because it is one of the few events that are not on West Bay Road and it is a beautiful route.

“What makes this run so different is that I get to see the ocean and there is not much traffic so it is peaceful,” said Mr. Jackson. “This is my second year and I plan to do it every year.”

This year’s design for the Memorial Walk T-shirt featured the local saying ‘Come so walk wid me nah!’ which means ‘Let’s come on a walk together.’ The T-shirts were sponsored by Cayman National, who has been a long standing supporter and friend of the college for many years.

“We are pleased to continue to support the Hugh Cummings Memorial Walk, which specifically aims to provide educational opportunities for students who otherwise may not be in a financial position to continue their education,” said Claudia Welds, Cayman National Senior Executive of Corporate Communications.

Event sponsors also included Fosters Food Fair, Tortuga Rum, Dunkin’ Donuts, Flowers Water and Saxon MG. Pedro St. James, Ace Screenprint and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service also helped make the Memorial Walk a success.