CMF Hosts its First STEM Racing National Finals

CMF Hosts its First STEM Racing National Finals

Students from five local schools—John Gray High School, Cayman Prep & High School, Layman E. Scott High School (Cayman Brac), Cayman International School, and Grace Christian Academy embarked on an extraordinary journey at the John Gray High School Gymnasium

Cayman Motoring Federation Hosts its First STEM Racing National Finals, Showcasing the Future of Innovation and Talent

George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands has marked a historic milestone in education and innovation with the successful hosting of its first-ever STEM Racing National Finals, delivered by the Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) as the official In-Country Coordinator for STEM Racing Supported by F1.

Over the course of the 2025–2026 season, which began in September 2025, students from five local schools—John Gray High School, Cayman Prep & High School, Layman E. Scott High School (Cayman Brac), Cayman International School, and Grace Christian Academy—embarked on an extraordinary journey combining engineering, branding, project management, and teamwork. The National Finals represented the culmination of months of dedication, creativity, and skill-building.

Held at the John Gray High School Gymnasium, the Finals brought together teams, educators, judges, and supporters to celebrate student achievement in a programme that goes far beyond traditional STEM education. Students designed, manufactured, and raced miniature Formula 1-style cars using industry-relevant tools such as CAD/CAM software, while developing critical life skills including communication, leadership, and strategic thinking.

Teams competed across a range of rigorous judging categories for up to 960 points, including:

  • Engineering & Design – assessing the technical quality and performance of the cars
  • Enterprise & Project Management – evaluating business planning, budgeting, and team organisation
  • Branding & Pit Display – showcasing creativity, identity, and marketing execution
  • Verbal Presentation – testing communication skills and the ability to present under pressure
  • On-Track Performance – where precision, speed, and engineering excellence came to life on the race track

The energy in the venue was electric as teams watched their cars launch down the 20M track, with split-second timing determining success. For many students, this was their first experience in a high-performance, competitive environment—mirroring the excitement and intensity of professional motorsport.

The event was honoured by the presence of Hon. Isaac Rankine, Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, and Hon. Rolston Anglin, Minister for Education and Training, both of whom expressed strong support for the programme and its role in shaping the future of Cayman’s youth.

Minister Rankine commended the initiative for its alignment with youth development and national sporting pathways, noting the importance of providing opportunities that inspire discipline, innovation, and ambition.

Minister Anglin highlighted the programme’s impact within schools, emphasizing how STEM Racing is equipping students with real-world skills that extend beyond the classroom and into future careers in engineering, technology, and beyond.

Both Ministers recognized the National Finals as a defining moment for education and youth development in the Cayman Islands.

The Cayman Motoring Federation extends its sincere appreciation to STEM Racing USA for its continued guidance and partnership, including the support of Brian Kendzior, Executive Director/Co-Founder, and partner Allison, whose expertise and commitment have been instrumental in delivering the programme to international standards.

The success of the National Finals was also made possible through the generous support of sponsors. Led by Cayman Customs Automotive as the title sponsor, alongside valued partners, CUC, Cayman Airways, Hampton by Hilton, Tony’s Toys, ShorLabs and the Ministry of Education and Training, who continue to invest in youth development, innovation, and the future of motorsport and STEM in the Cayman Islands.

The 2026 National Finals saw outstanding performances across all teams, with students demonstrating remarkable growth and achievement throughout the season.

 Award Winners included:

  • Pit Display Award: Scorch Racing (CPHS)
  • Project Management Award: Scorch Racing (CPHS)
  • Design & Engineering Award: Apex Racers (LSHS)
  • Scrutineering Award: CIS Racing (CIS)
  • Enterprise Award: Apex Racers (LSHS)
  • Verbal Presentation Award: Apex Racers (LSHS)
  • Team Identity Award: Apex Racers (LSHS)
  • Best Engineered Car Award: CIS Racing (CIS)
  • Fastest Car Award: Velocity X (at 1.298 seconds) (JGHS)
  • Best Sportsmanship Award: Apex Racing (LSHS)
  • Chair of Judges Recognition of Achievement Award: Apex Racing (LSHS)

 Overall Results:

  • 3rd Place: Grace Stem Racing (Grace Christian Academy) – 382.0 Points
  • 2nd Place: Scorch Racing (Cayman Prep High School) – 409.5 Points
  • Cayman Islands National Champions 2026: Apex Racers (Layman E. Scott High School) – 542.1 Points

Teams can gain a total of 960 points.

While trophies were awarded, every student who participated in the programme from September 2025 to April 2026 is recognized as a champion. Each team demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a commitment to learning that reflects the very best of the Cayman Islands.

Jane Scaletta, President of the Cayman Motoring Federation and In-Country Coordinator for STEM Racing, stated: “This moment represents far more than a competition—it is the culmination of a vision to bring world-class STEM opportunities to the Cayman Islands. From September last year to today, we have watched students transform into engineers, leaders, and innovators. Their confidence, creativity, and determination have been truly inspiring. We are incredibly grateful to STEM Racing USA; our sponsors led by Cayman Customs Automotive; our educators; and our volunteers who made this possible. This is only the beginning, and we look forward to seeing even more students join us next season.”

Following a successful inaugural season, the Cayman Motoring Federation looks forward to building on this momentum, with the next STEM Racing season set to begin in September 2026 through April 2027. The programme continues to expand opportunities for students across the Islands, strengthening pathways into STEM careers, motorsport, and global competition.

This first STEM Racing National Finals is not just an event—it is the beginning of a movement. One that is shaping Cayman’s future engineers, innovators, and leaders whose potential is only just being realized.

Media Contact:
Cayman Motoring Federation
info@caymanmotoringfederation.org

About the Cayman Motoring Federation

The Cayman Motoring Federation is the FIA-recognized National Sporting Authority for motorsport in the Cayman Islands, responsible for governing and developing motorsport while promoting youth education, community engagement and road safety.

CMF Launches First-Ever Auto Slalom League

CMF Launches First-Ever Auto Slalom League

The Marshalls at the opening round held at Fosters Airport Overflow Parking Lot.

Cayman Motoring Federation Launches First-Ever Auto Slalom League with 2026 Season Opener

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) has officially launched its first-ever National Auto Slalom League, marking a significant milestone in the development of grassroots motorsport in the Cayman Islands.

What is Auto Slalom? Auto Slalom is a precision-based motorsport discipline where drivers navigate a timed course marked by cones, typically set within a controlled environment such as a parking area. The focus is on vehicle control, accuracy, and consistency rather than outright speed, making it one of the safest and most accessible forms of motorsport. Drivers compete individually against the clock, with penalties applied for hitting cones or missing course elements, encouraging disciplined and skillful driving.

What is the Auto Slalom League? The Auto Slalom League is a structured six-race championship series where drivers compete across multiple events throughout the year, earning points based on their performance at each round. Consistency and progression are key, with results from each event contributing toward overall standings and end-of-season awards. The League format creates a clear pathway for driver development, encouraging participants to build skill, compete regularly, and measure improvement over time in a safe and competitive environment.

The opening round held at Fosters Airport Overflow Parking Lot, held on April 12 and sponsored by Jacques Scott and Heineken 0.0, saw eight drivers take to a precision-based slalom course designed to test control, consistency, and driver skill. Competitors participated across Stock and Modified categories, with results determined by a combined score of each driver’s best two of three timed runs.

CMF President & Event Secretary, Jane Scaletta, quoted “This first Auto Slalom event of 2026 represents a defining moment for grassroots motorsport in the Cayman Islands. We are building more than competition—we are creating a structured, safe, and sustainable pathway for drivers to develop their skills. It’s incredibly encouraging to see the level of interest and engagement from our community.”

The opening round held at Fosters Airport Overflow Parking Lot. VW-GTI taking on this precision-based slalom course designed to test control, consistency, and driver skill.

Toyota Starlet taking to this precision-based course

Tesla testing agility on this precision-based course

Chief Marshal and Driver

Driver Collaboration

Winners for the event included first place in the Stock category, Damean (Max) Simpson with 85.86 in a BMW E90, and first place in the Modified category, Rory Scheepers with 69.88 in a VW GTI. The fastest single lap time of the day was recorded by Adis Kevorkian with 33.26 in a VW GTI. All demonstrated the high level of performance achieved in the League’s inaugural event.

Rory Scheepers, CMF Member & Race Director, said “The level of driving we saw today was impressive, especially for the opening round of a brand-new league. The course challenged precision and consistency, which is what Auto Slalom is all about. It’s exciting to see drivers already pushing themselves to improve with each run.”

The 2026 Auto Slalom League will consist of six rounds, forming Cayman’s first structured national auto slalom championship. Upcoming events are scheduled for the year with a final awards ceremony to be held in December recognizing overall champions and standout performances;

  • May 31
  • July 12
  • August 9
  • September 20
  • October 25

Tech Team

All events are delivered in accordance with FIA-aligned auto slalom (Motorsport in a Box) regulations and are supported by trained marshals certified through FIA programs. The Cayman Motoring Federation continues to invest in capacity building, with ongoing training for stewards and race directors throughout 2026 to ensure the highest standards of safety and governance. The event was supported by a dedicated team of 10 volunteers working across marshalling, timing, and race control, ensuring a safe and professionally executed competition.

Rhondel Ramdath, CMF Vice President & Chief Marshal, noted “Safety is at the core of everything we do, and this event showcased the strength of our trained marshal team operating to FIA standards. The discipline and professionalism on display ensure that drivers can compete in a controlled and secure environment. This is exactly the foundation we need as the sport continues to grow locally.”

Sustainability remains a core pillar of the League. Through its partnership with Refuel, CMF integrates environmentally responsible practices into its events, including reduced emissions initiatives, recycling, and efficient resource management.

The League also emphasizes inclusion and participation, with a “Most Improved Female Driver” award presented at each event, alongside end-of-season recognition for overall league champions, category winners, and most improved drivers. We know we’ll see more females in the upcoming events.

Designed as both a competitive and educational platform, the Auto Slalom League provides a safe, controlled environment for licensed drivers aged 17 and over to develop advanced driving skills. The Auto Slalom format promotes precision handling and hazard awareness, supporting the Federation’s broader goal of encouraging safer and smarter driving across the Cayman Islands.

CMF Karting Commissioner Adis Kevorkian & Clerk of the Course, noted “Designing a course like this is about balancing challenge with safety, and today’s layout delivered both. Drivers had to think, adapt, and execute under pressure, which is exactly what develops real skill. This is a strong start for what will be an exciting and competitive season.”

Drivers may participate in individual events or compete across the full six-race championship series.

The launch of the Auto Slalom League represents a major step forward in CMF’s mission to build a sustainable, accessible, and internationally aligned motorsport framework for the Cayman Islands.

Media Contact:
Cayman Motoring Federation
info@caymanmotoringfederation.org

About the Cayman Motoring Federation

The Cayman Motoring Federation is the FIA-recognized National Sporting Authority for motorsport in the Cayman Islands, responsible for governing and developing motorsport while promoting youth education, community engagement and road safety.

CMF Advances STEM, Esports and Youth Karting Plans

CMF Advances STEM, Esports and Youth Karting Plans

CMF Enters New Era with STEM Nationals, Esports Expansion and Youth Karting Plans

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) has announced a series of major initiatives that signal a new chapter for motorsport development in the Cayman Islands following its annual strategic planning retreat held on 1 March 2026.

The Federation confirmed plans for the first-ever STEM Racing Cayman Islands Nationals, the launch of a structured Autocross League, expanded support for the esports racing community, continued road safety initiatives, and the development of youth karting programmes designed to introduce young Caymanians to motorsport at an earlier age.

STEM Racing Cayman Islands

A key milestone will be the first STEM Racing Cayman Islands Nationals Powered by Cayman Customs Automotive, and supporting sponsors the Ministry of Education, CUC, Cayman Airways, Hampton by Hilton, Tony’s Toys, scheduled for 25 April 2026 at the John Gray High School Gymnasium. The event will bring together high school teams from across the Islands competing in the international STEM Racing supported by Formula 1 programme. Students design, engineer, manufacture and race miniature Formula 1-style cars while presenting engineering portfolios, branding concepts and project management strategies to judges. Everyone is invited to come and watch this incredible show of project management, creative design and team building.

Jane Scaletta, President of the Cayman Motoring Federation, said the initiatives represent a transformative moment for motorsport and youth engagement in the Cayman Islands.

“Cayman motorsport is entering an exciting new era. Through programmes like STEM Racing, esports competition, grassroots autocross and future karting development, we are building an ecosystem that introduces young Caymanians to engineering, technology, and safe driving while giving them the opportunity to participate in motorsports at every level,” Scaletta said.

“As the FIA-recognized National Sporting Authority for motorsport in the Cayman Islands, our responsibility is not only to govern the sport but also to inspire the next generation of engineers, innovators and drivers.”

The Federation also confirmed the launch of the CMF Autocross League, the first event is sponsored by Jacques Scott and Heineken 0.0 on 12 April at 1:00PM at the Fosters Airport Overflow Parking Lot, and next two events sponsored by Lucky Rabbit Restaurant, which will provide drivers the opportunity to develop vehicle control and precision driving skills in a safe and structured environment. For more advanced drivers, this series of events provides skill building and precision throughout the year with the outcome being the autocross league champion of the year.

CMF has purchased two karts (one adult and one cadet (ages 8-12) that will be introduced to the autocross events throughout the year.

Ian Charlery at the FIA Motorsport Games (Ian and Karyll)

In parallel, CMF will continue expanding its sim racing and esports initiatives, which have seen strong participation from young Caymanians at community events such as Gamers Bay. With international representation and sim racing esports as a new Olympic sport, we aim to build a pathway from local digital motorsport to international competition with even real-world racing opportunities.

As the CMF is the FIA-recognised National Sporting Authority for the Cayman Islands, we are expanding the use of official FIA-aligned competition licences to support the growth of motorsport locally. Licensing ensures drivers receive proper training and compete under internationally recognised safety and sporting standards. As the disciplines such as esports, autocross, karting and, eventually, drag racing develop further, the CMF licensing pathway will help build a skilled community of Caymanian drivers capable of competing both locally and internationally.

As part of its strategic growth, CMF has also established two new commissions to help guide development in key areas.

Esports Commission

The newly formed Esports Commission will be led by Dr. Ian Charlery, who has been appointed Commissioner.

Dr. Charlery has been a leading advocate for esports development in the Cayman Islands and across the Caribbean. With a background in technology, education and digital competition, he has played an important role in growing simulation racing locally and mentoring young competitors interested in motorsport esports. He represented the Cayman Islands in the 2024 FIA Motorsport Games in Valencia, Spain.

He has worked closely with the regional esports community and has supported Cayman athletes preparing for international esports competition and the broader global sim racing ecosystem.

Ian Charlery in rig

Dr. Charlery said:

“I am honoured to serve as Esports Commissioner for the Cayman Motoring Federation. Esports motorsport represents an exciting opportunity to engage young people, develop new talent pathways, and position the Cayman Islands within the rapidly growing global motorsport ecosystem. I look forward to working with the CMF Executive Committee and our partners to build a strong, transparent, and internationally competitive esports program for our country.”

Adis Kevorkian Autocross 2025

Karting Commission

CMF also announced the creation of a Karting Commission, led by newly appointed Commissioner Mr. Adis Kevorkian.

Originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Kevorkian brings nearly three decades of grassroots motorsport experience. Over the years he has competed in a wide variety of vehicles, including a Toyota Corolla GTS, Mazda 323 GTX, Mitsubishi Galant VR-4, Dodge Neon Expresso, classic Mini Cooper S, and Mazda Miata, earning multiple class wins and building a reputation for creative budget builds and fearless driving lines.

A longtime ASCC competitor, Kevorkian is also well known for mentoring younger drivers and encouraging newcomers to enter the sport. Now based in the Cayman Islands, he continues competing locally in his Volkswagen MK7.5 GTI while supporting the growth of grassroots motorsport.

Kevorkian said:

“Karting is the true foundation of motorsport worldwide. It’s where drivers learn race craft, discipline and vehicle control at an early age. I’m excited to help CMF build a grassroots karting programme that gives young Caymanians their first step into motorsport.”

Building the Future of Motorsport in Cayman

In addition to competition programmes, CMF reaffirmed its commitment to road safety initiatives with the FIA Smart Driving Challenge which remains a core pillar of the Federation’s mission.

Through initiatives such as STEM Racing, esports development, autocross competition and future karting programmes, the Cayman Motoring Federation continues to build pathways that connect education, technology and motorsport, while encouraging safe driving and innovation among Cayman’s youth.

For more information visit:
www.caymanmotoringfederation.org

Media Contact:
Cayman Motoring Federation
info@caymanmotoringfederation.org

About the Cayman Motoring Federation

The Cayman Motoring Federation is the FIA-recognized National Sporting Authority for motorsport in the Cayman Islands, responsible for governing and developing motorsport while promoting youth education, community engagement and road safety.

Cayman Drivers Represent Cayman Islands in International JSRA Porsche Cup

Cayman Drivers Represent Cayman Islands in International JSRA Porsche Cup

Cayman Drivers Represent Cayman Islands in International JSRA Porsche Cup as Esports Momentum Accelerates

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) is proud to announce that five esports racers from the Cayman Islands competed in the 2026 JSRA Porsche Cup – Season 1 Sprint Series, marking another milestone in the rapid growth of competitive sim racing in the Cayman Islands. Cayman esports racers are Rich Dyer, Kavaun Green, Julian Narcisse, Dr. Ian Charlery, and Karyll Iton.

The Porsche Cup has become a flagship series in regional esports motorsport, says CMF (Photo: JSRA)

While the Cayman contingent participation at this level reflects meaningful progress and international exposure for Cayman’s emerging esports programme. Competing against a full 48-car international grid, the drivers are gaining invaluable experience in a championship environment known for its professionalism, intensity, and high production standards.

The Porsche Cup is organized by the Jamaica Simulation Racing Association (JSRA), led by President Stephen Stewart. Founded in December 2020, JSRA is a driver-led organization built by racers, for racers, with a mission to elevate sim racing across the Caribbean while connecting regional talent to a global audience. The championship has seen exceptional demand and is currently oversubscribed — a clear indicator of the strength and popularity of competitive sim racing in the region.

The eight-round international calendar includes iconic circuits such as Monza, Daytona, Sebring, and Road Atlanta. Each race weekend follows a structured professional format featuring official practice, qualifying, and two sprint races, including a reverse-grid feature race that rewards consistency and racecraft. All events are streamed live with full commentary and professional broadcast production, bringing Caribbean sim racing to a worldwide audience.

Round 1: Road Atlanta – January 23
Round 2: Monza – January 30
Round 3: Rudskogen – February 6
Round 4: Daytona – February 13
Round 5: Virginia International Raceway – February 27
Round 6: Circuit Navarra – March 6
Round 7: Snetterton – March 13
Round 8: Sebring – March 20

All rounds are streamed live every Friday evening at 19:45 (GMT-5) with full commentary and professional live production by JSRA. The series is supported by S Hotels Jamaica as the 2026 Title Sponsor.

Cayman’s participation in the series reflects the Federation’s broader commitment to developing esports as an accessible pathway into motorsport. Through partnerships and regional collaboration — including the strong platform provided by JSRA — Cayman drivers are gaining exposure, discipline, and competitive experience that supports long-term growth.

Dr. Ian Charlery, CMF Chair of Esports, emphasized the importance of the series, “The Pcup series is an important one as it allows drivers from different levels to compete together. The grid is massive and as a result you could find yourself having a challenging fun even if you are in P30. These events are A LOT of fun. Thanks to JSRA for their hard-work.”

“Esports is one of the most inclusive and scalable entry points into motorsport,” added a CMF President, Jane Scaletta. “Our drivers competing internationally shows that Cayman is building real momentum. We are proud of their performance, their professionalism, and the way they represent our country.”

The Cayman Motoring Federation sees esports as a key pillar of its future strategy — connecting youth engagement, technology, and motorsport pathways — and participation in championships like the JSRA Porsche Cup underscores the Federation’s commitment to preparing Cayman athletes for the global stage.

For more information about CMF, membership, or upcoming events, visit www.caymanmotoringfederation.org or email info@caymanmotoringfederation.org.

About Cayman Motoring Federation
The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) is the national motorsport authority of the Cayman Islands, recognized by the FIA. CMF’s mission is to promote motorsport and motoring safety through road safety initiatives, provide education and training, involve youth and open the doors to all types of motorsports, and develop opportunities for drivers and officials to excel in their respective disciplines.

STEM Racing Cayman Awards Celebrate Student Innovation

STEM Racing Cayman Awards Celebrate Student Innovation

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) proudly hosted the STEM Racing Cayman Islands Regional Awards Ceremony on 15 December 2025 at the Cayman Prep and High School, recognising the exceptional dedication, creativity, and technical skill demonstrated by Caymanian students who competed at the STEM Racing USA Regional Finals.

The 2024–2025 STEM Racing Cayman Islands programme proudly included students from five high schools all competing in Development Level:

  • John Gray High School
  • Layman E. Scott High School
  • Cayman Prep and High School
  • Cayman International School
  • Grace Christian Academy

The ceremony brought together students, teachers, parents, and programme supporters to celebrate months of intensive preparation—spanning engineering design, manufacturing, branding, data analysis, and competitive racing. The event was opened by Cayman Prep & High School Principal, Mr. Karl Murphy, and mc’d by CMF President Jane Scaletta, who welcomed attendees and praised the students’ commitment, teamwork, and professionalism throughout the season. She also thanked Cayman Customs Automotive, the main sponsor of STEM Racing Cayman Islands.

STEM Racing Cayman Islands Regional Winners 2025

STEM Racing CMF President Jane Scaletta

“What makes STEM Racing so powerful is that students are challenged to think like engineers, entrepreneurs, and professional athletes all at once,” said Scaletta. “The level of excellence we saw this year reflects not only talent, but discipline, resilience, and a genuine passion for learning.”

CMF is thrilled to recognise the top-performing teams from the Cayman Islands at the Regional Finals:

  • Regional Champions – Brac Racers, Layman E. Scott High School
  • Second Place – John Gray Blazers, John Gray Racing
  • Third Place – Scorch Racing, Cayman Prep and High School

    But the success didn’t stop there. Cayman teams also earned an impressive range of Special Awards, highlighting excellence across technical, creative, and communication disciplines:

    • Best Verbal Presentation – Brac Racers
    • Sponsorship & Marketing Award – Scorch Racing
    • Team Identity Award – Scorch Racing
    • Video Challenge Winner – John Gray Blazers
    • Fastest Car (1.340 seconds) – Brac Racers
    • Best Engineered Car – Brac Racers
    • Best Designed Car (with Halo) – Cayman International School

    STEM Racing Cayman Islands Regionals 2025 Stage Setup

    About STEM Racing Cayman Islands

    STEM Racing is a globally recognised, project-based learning programme that challenges students to design, manufacture, test, and race miniature Formula 1–style cars, while also developing skills in engineering, entrepreneurship, branding, project management, and public speaking.

    Students compete across three progressive competition classes:

    • Entry Level – Foundational STEM concepts, teamwork, and design principles
    • Development Level – Advanced design analysis, aerodynamics, and enterprise skills
    • Professional Level – High-level engineering, data-driven performance, and professional presentations

    At Regional Finals, teams are evaluated across five core judging categories:

    • Engineering
    • Enterprise
    • Verbal Presentation
    • Racing Performance
    • Scrutineering

    The STEM Racing Cayman Islands programme continues to serve as a cornerstone of CMF’s youth development and education strategy—providing students with real-world experience aligned with careers in engineering, technology, motorsport, design, and business.

    As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: the Cayman Islands is cultivating a generation of innovators ready to compete—and succeed—on the global stage.

    The next event will be on 25 April 2026 for the STEM Racing Cayman Islands Nationals which concludes the programme for the year. The programme will start again in September 2026.

    About the Cayman Motoring Federation
    The Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF) is the FIA-recognised National Sporting Authority for motorsport in the Cayman Islands. CMF is committed to developing safe, inclusive, and sustainable motorsport while using motorsport as a platform for education, youth engagement, and community impact.

    For more information about the Cayman Motoring Federation or partnership opportunities, please contact:

    Cayman Motoring Federation (CMF)
    PO Box 1521, Grand Cayman KY1-9006
    Email: info@caymanmotoring.com
    Phone: 1-345-916-6599