MONTEGO BAY – Runners from around the globe are gathering in Jamaica for the annual Reggae Marathon/Half Marathon and 10k, which takes place this year on December 5. The course follows the scenic Negril coastline, and is set to the pulsating rhythm of reggae music, providing a distinctly Jamaican experience.
“Health and wellness travel to Jamaica is an important part our island’s tourism, and we continue to offer athletes competitive and unique sporting events” commented John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “The ninth annual Reggae Marathon is one-of-a-kind in the fact that it incorporates Jamaica’s musical culture, cuisine and heritage into a Marathon event. Runners will truly experience an authentic taste of Jamaica while enjoying the breathtaking sights.”
Host of Special Events
Special events leading up to the Marathon take place December 3-4, including: the Marathon Expo, Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Pasta Party at Couples Swept Away, and the Village Bash in the Negril Town Square. The race will begin at Long Bay Beach Park in Negril on December 5, culminating with the Finish Line Victory Party at West End’s MX111 that is set to sizzle with popular Reggae artiste Etana, in addition to the Cultural HotSteppa Drummers, dancers and other acts.
The Marathon is operated to world-class standards, with the race set on an International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) certified course featuring water/aid stations for every mile. Cooling stations are equipped with misters and iced towel wraps. Plus, medical stations are positioned along the course. They are manned by a multi-disciplinary medical team with a helicopter on call.
The Reggae Marathon comes on the heels of the second annual Rose Hall Triathlon & Wellness Festival. That festival was held along the northern Elegant Corridor of Jamaica on October 31, 2009. Each year the Triathlon attracts both local and international athletes for an event that incorporates swimming, cycling, and running. Jamaica was also a sponsor of the 2009 Nautica New York City Triathlon.
