The Bermuda Half Marathon Derby has announced the appointment of Melissa Looby as its new President, effective May 22nd 2026, as the island prepares to gather at this year’s Finish Line Viewing Village for what promises to be a landmark occasion in the Derby’s storied history.
Looby succeeds Dr. Gina Tucker, who has served on the Derby committee for 19 years as President and whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping the event into the institution it is today. After years of deliberate succession planning, Dr. Tucker feels the time is right to pass the baton to new leadership.
“I am very excited to pass the baton on to Melissa. She has been working with the committee since our 2022 race, so we’ve been mentoring her and she is more than capable of carrying the Derby forward. I have been preparing for succession for some time now, so it’s just the next natural step. I was looking at numerous people and last year she just said, ‘Dr. Tucker, I’ll do it’ - and here we are. She will carry it forward until she is no longer willing to serve.”
Dr. Tucker, Outgoing President said, “Looby brings deep institutional knowledge to the role, having served on the Derby’s executive committee since 2021. During that time she has worked closely alongside Dr. Tucker, playing an active role in the organisation and delivery of one of Bermuda’s most celebrated annual athletic events and contributing to the committee’s strategic direction.
“It is an honour to step into this role and to build on the incredible foundation Dr. Tucker has laid over nearly two decades of service. This event is more than a race - it is a tradition that brings our island together, celebrates athletic achievement, and inspires people of all abilities to push themselves. I look forward to carrying that legacy forward.”
Looby, Incoming President said, “This year’s race day celebration, with participant numbers already at over 1,100, will mark a special moment of public recognition for Dr. Tucker, while formally introducing the incoming President. The community is invited to join the Derby at the Finish Line Viewing Village at North Village Field - sponsored in part by Sound Concepts Ltd. - on Friday, 22 May 2026 from 8:30am. The Village will provide a dedicated space to view the race coverage, presented by Bermuda Broadcasting and the Bermuda Today app, enjoy the atmosphere of the day, celebrate the determination of participants, and be part of the official finish line experience.
Hope Academy and Duch Pops will be on hand as vendors, along with complimentary post race cold plunge and massage services, and race participants and attendees are encouraged to support. Spectators not attending the race finish are invited to pay tribute to Dr. Tucker along the race course through signs and messages of thanks.
“Every runner who crosses the finish line represents courage, commitment, and pride. This year, we are especially pleased to invite Bermuda to join us in celebrating our finishers while also honoring Dr. Tucker for her years of dedicated leadership and service to this historic event. We want every finisher to feel the energy of Bermuda behind them - whether you are supporting a loved one, honoring the history of the race, or simply enjoying one of Bermuda’s great community traditions, we invite you to join us at the finish line.”
Looby’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Derby as the organization looks to strengthen its community presence, support participation at all levels, and uphold the standards that have made the event a cornerstone of Bermuda’s sporting calendar. Clubs, families, schools, organizations, and community groups are warmly encouraged to attend and show their support for this year’s runners.
