Cayman: Record-Breaking Turnout for DG’s 5K

Deputy Governor Hon. Franz Manderson (centre) celebrates the record-breaking turnout for the DG’s 5K.  Sharing in the celebration are (left to right) are Governor Jane Owen and DG’s 5K Co-Chairperson, Jennifer Ahearn. 

George Town came alive on Sunday, 30 March as over two thousand participants gathered at the Government Administration Building on Elgin Avenue for the third and final race of the 2025 Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge. The record-breaking turnout included people of all ages, fitness levels and backgrounds, including teams from this year’s sponsoring organisations.

Governor Jane Owen takes a photo with Teddy Mercer after presenting him with his medal for finishing first in the DG’s 5K Challenge

Leading the sea of blue in the mission to raise funds for the beneficiaries was Deputy Governor, Hon. Franz Manderson. He was joined by Governor Jane Owen and various chief officers and senior leaders from government entities. After crossing the finish line, Deputy Governor Manderson greeted and applauded participants as they too completed the Challenge.

(L-R) Norman Klein, (fourth from left) Managing Partner of Appleby, the platinum sponsor of the DG’s 5K Challenge lines up alongside, Governor Jane Owen, Deputy Governor Franz Manderson and other participants for the start of the race

Deputy Governor Manderson expressed appreciation for the support for the cause. “I am delighted to be a part of this record-breaking DG’s 5K. Wonderful things can happen when we come together in the interest of our community and I am happy to see so many people support and give back to our community. This is the biggest DG’s 5K and I thank all of you for your contribution,” he said.

Runners and walkers make their way down Elgin Avenue during the DG’s 5K

The top finishers in the male and female category were Teddy Mercer and Emily Clarke. Mercer posted a time of 16:47 while Clarke clocked a time of 19:55.

Every year the DG selects three local charities as beneficiaries. This year the proceeds will go to the Cayman Islands Girls Brigade, Cayman Islands Scouts Association and One2One (formerly Big Brothers Big Sisters).

Runners set off from the start line at the Government Administration Building on Elgin Avenue. 

Following the completion of the financial reconciliation process, the organisers will host a reception to distribute the funds to the three beneficiaries and recognise sponsors. Later this month, the planning committee will also host the official sponsorship handover ceremony.