As part of its ongoing efforts to reach out to the Cayman community as a corporate citizen, AT&T Wireless Cayman Islands has signed on as the title sponsor of the 3rd Annual Cayman Islands Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, 5 December, and benefits the Cayman Islands Cadet Corps.

“We are thrilled to have AT&T Wireless as our title sponsor! The Marathon’s partnership with them is an ideal one because we expect the majority of our runners to come from the United States,” says Rhonda Kelly, Race Director and CEO of Kelly Holding Ltd. “The fact that AT&T Wireless is headquartered, and operates in the U.S. means instant recognition by North American runners, and indeed gives increased credibility to the event which is invaluable for us as promoters.”

“Their participation also demonstrates a commitment to our country’s youth, as it supports the Cadet Corps programme, and we truly appreciate AT&T Wireless’ ability to see the potential for this relatively new event,” Rhonda continued.

According to Rhonda, AT&T Wireless’ sponsorship will greatly enhance the profile of the race because of the excellent reputation that the company has built in the short time since it has been in the Cayman community and its well-established and long-standing operations in the North American and other international markets.

“We are delighted to be the title sponsor of the Cayman Islands Marathon, and look forward to doing our part to develop the race, making it the premier running event in Cayman and the Caribbean,” says AT&T Wireless Manager of Sales & Marketing, Lucy Tibbetts. “From volunteer support to extensive marketing and promotion, AT&T Wireless intends to reach out to the Cayman community and encourage them to be there for the long run in 2004.”
The race, now called the AT&T Wireless Cayman Islands Marathon, is the major fundraiser for the Cayman Islands Cadet Corps, an initiative which was introduced in 2002 by the Ministry of Education, Human Resources & Culture in conjunction with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service as a way to educate and train youth in the Cayman Islands. All proceeds from the event go to the organisation, which currently boasts a regiment of 70 cadets between the ages of 11-17.

Online registration is now open at www.caymanislandsmarathon.com for the marathon, half marathon and the four-person relay, which requires each team member to run 6.5 miles each. Rhonda advises local runners to register early to receive special rates, and have the chance to win Cayman Airways tickets and gifts from AT&T Wireless. She also encourages walkers to join in the fun.

“The course is manned for about six hours so walkers can participate in the half-marathon and feel comfortable that the water stops will still be open and race personnel will be on the route,” she says.

For more information about the Cayman Islands Marathon, call 525 8822 or log on to www.caymanislandsmarathon.com.