The management team of Red Sail Sports Grand Cayman have confirmed that all their staff members are safe and no one suffered any physical injuries from Ivan, the category 5 hurricane which swept through Grand Cayman nearly three weeks ago. Relief efforts were swiftly coordinated to provide basic needs in the first few days following Ivan’s destructive path.Rod McDowall, Operations Manager for Red Sail Sports Grand Cayman, expressed heartfelt appreciation to friends and loyal customers for their concern and words of encouragement. “I’d also like to express my gratitude to our staff for all their hard work prior to and after the arrival of Hurricane Ivan. The staff is well trained in hurricane preparations and we appreciate their dedication and perseverance.”

And their efforts certainly paid off as McDowall was able to confirm that Hurricane Ivan had not significantly affected the business. “We lost one mast off one of our three catamarans but our dive boats suffered only minor cosmetic damage and repairs are already in progress.” Additionally, the operation did lose some vehicles due to flooding; however, the nucleus of the fleet is up and running.

McDowall added that at this time no date could be set for re-opening, due in part to the current limitations on travel to Grand Cayman. “We will be diving and sailing very quickly - just as soon as the island infrastructure is restored sufficiently to welcome back visitors.” At press time, because of power outages, cleaning up and rebuilding, November 1st was the date the Cayman Islands government had announced.

Seven Mile Beach now has new electric poles up to the Hyatt and running water a few hours a day as utilities are gradually being restored. Improvements have been made at a rapid rate and people are maintaining a positive outlook as restoration continues.

“This has certainly created very adverse and trying conditions for us. However, through it all, our staff members have kept smiles on their faces. It certainly has been a great team building exercise!” McDowall reports.
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