“Legendary” marathon runners have been awarded honorary doctoral degrees in natural health science.

Raymond Swan, Albert Donawa and Kavin Smith received the qualifications from the College of Natural Health Sciences Bermuda at the school’s fourth annual graduation and awards ceremony.

The college chancellor, the Reverend Detroy Bean, commended their contributions to Bermuda’s athleticism and civil society.

Dr Bean said: “Today’s honourees exemplify our graduation theme for this year — ‘Run this race with spirit and endurance’.

“This race we call life has many trips and turns, ups and downs. However hard it gets, we must never give up. These men are great because they never gave up.”

Additionally, valedictorian Rasika Chaimongkolpat and Prapakron Khamdang, both Bermuda residents from Thailand, graduated cum laude with associate of applied science degrees in osteopathic manual therapy and clinical competency certifications in osteokinaesthetics with distinction.

Ms Chaimongkolpat and Ms Khamdang took the Bermuda Osteopathy Board Exam last month to become registered level one osteopathic manual therapists.

Ms Chaimongkolpat graduated with the highest academic and practical examination scores.

“So many times I wanted to give up because my English was not that good. I felt discouraged by my early grades,” Ms Chaimongkolpat said.

“However, my family and teachers told me not to give up, and today I am so happy to be graduating with honours.”

The Reverend Emily Gail Dill attended the graduation and applauded the work of the honourees and graduates.

Dr Dill said: “Do not despise small beginnings. Twenty years from now, we will reflect on this day with satisfaction and pride when we see just how far we have come.”