The Cayman Islands Olympic Fundraising committee is already exceptionally busy raising much needed cash for the deserving athletes who not only compete in the Olympics but also major championships around the world. Cayman’s elite athletes who will benefit from these brilliant fundraising efforts are Cydonie Mothersill, Ronald Forbes, Michael Letterlough and the swimming brothers Shaune and Brett Fraser.

Caledonian Bank, a huge supporter of Cayman’s Olympic hopefuls, has come forward to raise awareness of the committee’s fundraising efforts as well as to contribute to the cause. Caledonian Bank has provided the committee with a $10,100 contribution and in so doing become the first gold sponsor for 2010, joining an impressive group of local corporate sponsors to date.

The committee’s motto for 2009 – 2012 is ‘Building hope for gold’ and it is avidly preparing for the event, ‘Rolling the Dice at Caesars’ which is at the Ritz–Carlton hotel on 12 March. “The CIO Fundraising Committee is very excited about this upcoming event,” said chairperson, Betty Baraud. “We are extremely appreciative of the generous donation from Caledonian Bank, which is very much needed.

“This event will far exceed anyone’s imagination and will provide the best of Las Vegas, so we need money to make money. During the evening one can choose to enjoy the evening at the Shadow Bar in a very decadent Grecian inspired lounge at Caesars Palace, whilst being entertained by the silhouette dancers, or simply enjoy a performance by an international group of entertainers, the Gold Stilettos.”

With the dress code being Roman Attire to a Night in Vegas, guests can expect to be greeted by Roman centurion guards and possibly served by toga clad Romans. Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with VIPs and celebrities, dine at signature restaurants such as Nobu and Spagos, and enjoy performances throughout the evening by well known entertainers. Playing for big stakes with the high rollers should also be top on everyone’s to do list.

Some of the big prizes that will be up for grabs throughout the evening will include a family weekend stay, at the Ritz–Carlton Grand Cayman, a weekend for two at the Trump International Beach Resort, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, and an amazing swag of great items – all for a great cause.

Baraud added: “The Cayman Islands, despite its tiny size, has been sending teams to the Olympics since 1974, but has not yet won a medal. Help us help our Olympic hopefuls, as we do our part in building hope for gold. Join our first premier sponsor for 2010, Caledonian Bank, make a difference, become a sponsor. If you missed last year’s Project Runway, you cannot afford to miss, Rolling the Dice at Caesars.”