The marathon is finally here and gone!

George Town woke up to over 800 runners pounding the roads in this year’s Annual Marathon on Sunday (2)morning.

129 full marathoners, 626 half marathoners and 81 relay teams joined this great event.

The Marathon started at 5am from Breeze’s on the Waterfront in George Town and the route lead competitors via South Sound up to Prospect Point and then back again via Walker’s Road.

The event is known for its fun (and pain), and the spirits were high despite the early hour.

There was plenty of support and much cheering to all those who made it to the finish line.

Sixty-three staff members from Cost-U-Less and The North West Company (NWC) spanning Northern Canada, Alaska, Washington State and the Cayman Islands arrived to hit the ground and ran the Marathon in support of the Cayman Islands Diabetes Association (CIDA).

“We are very pleased to have employees from each of our Banners – Cost-U-Less, Northern, NorthMart, AC Value Center, Giant Tiger and our three support offices participating in this exciting marathon,” says Edward Kennedy, President and CEO, The North West Company. “Participation on our annual marathon team continues to grow and this year I am proud to say that 42 new runners signed up for this event.”

In addition to being part of the Cayman Islands Marathon, Cost-U-Less Grand Cayman and Team North West are pleased to announce a special donation of $15,000 for CIDA.

From now until the end of the year, Cost-U-Less customers can purchase a Gift of Hope decal for $2, single or $10, family pack, with all proceeds going to the CIDA. The decals are then placed on display throughout the store to celebrate customer’s support.

“Our employees here in Cayman Islands are very excited to host the Team North West runners and we are having fun raising funds for the CIDA. It’s awesome to be part of such a major fundraising event and even more special knowing the funds are going to go towards helping those living with diabetes in the Cayman Islands,” says Guy Strickland, Store Manager, Cost-U-Less.

Cost-U-Less Grand Cayman cheered on Team North West and all the marathon participants from their Christmas themed water station along the race route.