The streets of Bermuda are buzzing with excitement as Bermuda Day approaches—a celebration of culture, community, and competition.
But for one family, this year carries a somber weight. Gaylhia LeMay will not be on the sidelines of the annual half-marathon derby, cheering as she has done for decades. Her brother, Clyde Lee, a half marathon legend on the island, will not be racing.
“He was doing what he loved,” Gaylhia shares softly. “Clyde has been riding and running for over 40 years. Sunday mornings were sacred—his dockyard ride a ritual. But on July 21st, 2024, everything changed.”
As Clyde was cycling along Pitts Bay Road, a car—driven by a distracted motorist—struck him. The impact threw him off his bike, leaving him with catastrophic injuries: a severe head injury, a broken neck, and irreparable spinal cord damage.
“He’s still in the hospital,” Gaylhia says. “He was in and out of the ICU for months. Now, he’s at King Edward Memorial Hospital, in ICU on a ventilator. His life has changed forever.”
Clyde’s name is familiar across Bermuda. He has competed in thousands of races over the years, consistently placing at the top of his age group. Last year, in fact, he placed third in the Bermuda Day race in his age group. This year, his absence will be painfully felt.
“This race has been part of our lives for as long as I can remember. We’d travel to see him compete. Now… it’s just different. I won’t be watching this year.”
As Bermuda Day festivities kick off and the half-marathon derby beckons hundreds, Gaylhia’s message cuts through the celebration like a sobering wind.
“You can be doing everything right. Clyde was. And still—just like that—it can all change. Appreciate every run, every walk, every breath. Be vigilant. Life is fragile.”
This message aligns with the call from the Bermuda Police Service, who are deploying sobriety checkpoints across all nine parishes—from St. George’s to Sandys. Already, two arrests have been made for impaired driving. Officers will be out in force this weekend, not only targeting drunk driving but also anyone carrying weapons or disturbing the peace.
As the island gathers in unity, Gaylhia reminds us that celebration must be met with responsibility.
“Try to have a good Bermuda Day,” she says, her voice heavy but hopeful. “Even if you’re hurting. Even if it’s hard to see the forest for the trees… find your peace. Find your reason to celebrate safely.” Take nothing for granted.
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