Veteran brings in cash after crossing marathon line

| 03/12/2013

(CNS): Despite his more mature status at 65 years old, veteran local marathon runner Derek Haines has done it again and completed yet another 26-mile race, raising over $30,000 for a local charity in the process. Haines finished this year’s Intertrust Marathon in 4.18.26 on Sunday, which he said was “a tad slower” than the four hours or less he was aiming for but cramp slowed him down during the last four miles of the race. Nevertheless, he made it home in first place for his age group and 32nd overall — much faster then some who were half his age. Best of all, Haines has just over $33k pledged for the Feed our Future charity, the cause that Haines was pounding the pavement for this year.

Haines was aiming to collect $30,000 for the charity which supplies local kids with a lunch during the school holidays. He said that DART, PWC and the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman all chipped in CI$5K corporate sponsorship and all the rest came in from other companies, friends, colleagues and family ,who he said had all been so generous in their contributions.

“It was a well organised and supported event, “Haines said of Sunday’s race. “Congratulations and thanks to those concerned and all of the volunteers who did a great job around the course.”

The race started on Sunday morning at 5am Sunday in downtown George Town with around 1,300 people running, walking or using wheel chairs. The 26.2 mile full marathon was won by Justin Grunewald (27) from Minneapolis, USA, one of hundreds of people who Came to Cayman for the race from overseas. He finished in 2:42:38, ahead of Steve Speirs  (47), who came in at 2:56:18.

Grunewald’s wife, Gabriele, was the fastest female in the half-marathon (1:21:12). The full women’s race was won by Doan Pham from Houston, who clocked 3:42:51, which was 7th overall. 

Meanwhile, Eileen Phipps bagged Haines’ special spot prize of a box of champagne for guessing the closest time. Just 4 seconds out on the finishing time, Haines described the guess as rather “pessimistic but almost spot on”.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Category: Sports

About the Author ()

Comments (21)

Trackback URL | Comments RSS Feed

  1. Anonymous says:

    Well done Mr. Haines GOD bless all your efforts!  I always admire how you raise so much funds for needy causes. From the days when you raised so much money for the Rugby Club by getting support from the local businesses. Thanks to all who helped in supporting you from getting the letters done to doing the sports part! Your brother would be so proud of you!! I toot you all the time!!

  2. Anonymous says:

    I often see Derek running along the side of the road and it makes me feel good. A sincere well done, good news for a change.

  3. pmilburn says:

    How can anyone put thumbs down to such a wonderful person for raising funds for a very worthy charity.Shame shame.Well done Derek and may you continue to shine on the fundraising forefront.

  4. Cow Cod says:

    Derek for Chief of Police!!!

  5. Anonymous says:

    I don't think he likes  beeing classified as "More mature". Today's 65 is yesterday's 40.  What age has to do with anything????????????

  6. Anonymous says:

    Way to go Derek! Great man, always cheerful, helpful and has a great heart.

  7. Right ya so says:

    Way to go Derek! Thank you. 

  8. Anonymous says:

    Thank you Derek for being such a wonderful citizen. You are a most caring individual, always raising funds for a great cause. May god richly bless you and your family. Wishing you a happy and healthy Christmas.

     

  9. Hancock says:

    Derek is an amazing person who has raised over US $250,000 in six marathons in the Cayman Islands. All funds have gone to local charities sponsored by the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman. Derek, long may you reign.

    • Hurrah! says:

      A true community gentleman. We are blessed to know such a man and he DOES run for the betterment of Cayman.  He served us as a loyal top policeman for years and continues to serve through Rotary and charity. Thank you Derek (and your kind and patient wife) 

    • Hurrah! says:

      A true community gentleman. We are blessed to know such a man and he DOES run for the betterment of Cayman.  He served us as a loyal top policeman for years and continues to serve through Rotary and charity. Thank you Derek (and your kind and patient wife) 

    • Chris Johnson says:

      Well said Hancock. I assume that the two thumbs down were sent by some long term residents at Northward. Suppose my comment will generate a few more!