UCCI CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE WITH COMMUNITY MARATHON EVENT FEATURING ULTRA DISTANCE CHALLENGE

The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) is marking its 50th anniversary with a special community celebration; the UCCI 50th Anniversary Marathon, taking place on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The event invites runners, walkers, corporate teams, and families across the Cayman Islands to join in commemorating five decades of educational excellence.

Designed for participants of all fitness levels, from first-time 5K walkers to ultra-distance runners, the marathon features four distance options on a scenic George Town course. The aim is simple, create a day that feels achievable, inclusive and fun, while raising the profile of higher education and student support in the Cayman Islands.

Dr. Belinda Blessitt Vincent, UCCI event organizer and Dean of Business and Finance at UCCI, commented, “Whether you’re tackling your first 5K or sharing a 50K relay with friends and colleagues, every step supports education, opportunity, and the next generation of Cayman talent.”

At the heart of the event is the 50K ultra marathon, a 31-mile challenge that starts at 5am to take advantage of the cooler early-morning temperatures. Ultra runners will complete five laps of a 10K George Town loop, testing both their legs and their mindset over a distance that goes beyond a traditional marathon.

Ultra marathons like the 50K are a test of true grit, typically taking between 4 to 7 hours to complete depending on the runner’s experience and pace. The event welcomes both seasoned ultra runners looking to add a unique Cayman challenge to their portfolio and ambitious first-time ultra participants ready to push their limits in celebration of this historic milestone.

For those not quite ready for the full ultra distance, the 50K relay option offers corporate teams, running clubs, and groups of friends the chance to share the experience. Each of the five team members tackles a 10K segment, making the ultra distance accessible for many more.

Built around a carefully designed 10K loop through George Town, the event truly offers something for everyone. The 50K ultra marathon challenges solo runners to complete five loops (31 miles), making it one of the Cayman Islands’ most demanding running events. For those seeking a shared experience, relay teams of five can each run one 10K segment, celebrating their collective achievement at the finish line. The 25K half-ultra presents a substantial challenge for seasoned runners, covering two and a half loops and finishing near Warwick Drive along Seafarers Way, perfect for those looking to bridge the gap between traditional road races and ultra-distance events. For recreational runners and competitive athletes alike, the 10K offers a single scenic loop through George Town, ideal for chasing personal bests or simply enjoying a morning run. Finally, the 5K fun run/walk provides a welcoming, family-friendly route beginning and ending at the UCCI campus on Walkers Road, perfect for first-timers, families with children, community groups, and anyone eager to be part of the celebration without the pressure of longer distances. Start times range from 5:00 a.m. for the 50K and 25K, to 6:00 a.m. for the 10K and 5K Fun Run/Walk.

“We wanted a course that feels achievable and enjoyable for everyone,” Dr. Blessitt Vincent added. “The 5K is perfect for families and community groups to start their running journey, while the longer distances challenge experienced runners. The beauty of this event is its inclusivity, whether you walk, run, or cheer from the sidelines, you’re part of the celebration.”

The anniversary marathon is the centrepiece of UCCI’s year-long celebration honouring five decades of transforming lives through education in the Cayman Islands. Since its founding, UCCI has been instrumental in developing local talent, providing accessible higher education, and contributing to the social and economic development of the nation.

Alumni, students, staff, and the broader community are encouraged to participate in UCCI colours, corporate team shirts, or creative costumes, turning the route into a rolling wave of Cayman pride. Spectators are invited to line the course, bringing their energy and enthusiasm to cheer on participants as they tackle their chosen distance.

Businesses are especially encouraged to form corporate teams as part of staff wellness, team building, and community engagement initiatives. The event provides a unique opportunity for companies to demonstrate their commitment to health, education, and community development while fostering team unity.

Participants in the inaugural UCCI 50th Anniversary Marathon will become part of the institution’s history, with their achievement forever linked to this golden anniversary milestone. Finishers will receive commemorative medals and t-shirts celebrating both their personal accomplishment and UCCI’s 50 years of service to the Cayman Islands.

Registration is now open at https://haku.ly/441bfd21ce . Participants can select their distance and complete registration in minutes. Early registration is encouraged, and early bird pricing is live until December 31, 2025. 

Those unable to participate in person can still support UCCI’s mission through the Donate option, which links directly to https://ucci.edu.ky/50 . All proceeds support UCCI’s educational programmes and student scholarships.