Somersfield Marks 10th Reid Kempe Race

March 31, 2026 | 0 Comments

Somersfield Academy celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Reid Kempe Memorial Race on January 23, 2026, honouring the late teacher, sailor, and environmental advocate Edwin James “Reid” Kempe.

A spokesperson said, “On January 23, Somersfield celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Reid Kempe Memorial Race, an annual event held in honour of Edwin James “Reid” Kempe — former Somersfield teacher, Olympic sailor, poet, musician, and passionate advocate for Bermuda’s environment. Reid passed away in August 2015 after a short battle with cancer, and the Race continues to celebrate the energy, generosity, and spirit he brought to the Somersfield community.

“The day began with a whole-school memorial walk, uniting students from our youngest in Children’s House to those in the Diploma Programme. The walk provided a meaningful moment for reflection and remembrance.

“As in previous years, the Kempe family joined the event. Today, Reid’s grandson is also a student at Somersfield Academy, reflecting the deep and continuing connection between the Kempe family and the school community. To mark the tenth anniversary, Zoë Kempe-Gibson ran the course with balloons tied around her waist, with a grub day awarded to any student who finished ahead of her. A total of 106 students accepted the challenge. All participants were also treated to a refreshing cup of Ashley’s Lemonade post-race, generously donated by the Kempe family.

“On February 20, Somersfield recognised the top finishers and the Kempe family dedicated a bench in Reid’s honour. “We felt that a “Reiding” bench was a fitting tribute to an avid reader and forever student, such as my Dad,” said his daughter, Zoe. “The bench will serve as a quiet space for rest, reflection, and, of course, reading.” It perfectly honours the memory of a teacher and community member who gave so much to the school.

“The Reid Kempe Memorial Race remains an important tradition at Somersfield, keeping Reid’s memory alive, while working as a qualifier for its top cross-country runners.

“Race results — 1st Place Boys & Girls by Grade:

P5 Boy: Rio Wookey

P5 Girl: Aine Fahy

P6 Boy: Trevor Mills
P6 Girl: Molly Morton

M1 Boy: Leo Heyland
M1 Girl: Eva Desjardins

M2 Boy: Shiloh Stevens
M2 Girl: Evelyn Fahy — Overall Fastest Girl

M3 Boy: Riley Maybury
M3 Girl: Kate Pursell

M4 Boy: Jarred Jones — Overall Fastest Boy
M4 Girl: Zarah Fahy

M5 Boy: Louis Manning
M5 Girl: Hayleigh Cherry

DP1 Boy: Fergus O’Connell
DP1 Girl: Dezirae Darrell

DP2 Boy: Roman Jones
DP2 Girl: Aaliyah Haffar