Reggae Marathon to focus on helping Negril recovery

HURRICANE MELISSA left several communities across Jamaica facing widespread damage, including Negril, the beloved home of the Reggae Marathon for nearly a quarter of a century.

As the nation rebuilds, organisers are preparing for the 25th staging of the event, which has long been a source of unity, endurance, and economic stability for Jamaica. This year’s race, set for December 7, will support the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in Negril, the birthplace of the Reggae Marathon and one of the areas most deeply impacted by Hurricane Melissa. Furthermore, the 2025 staging carries deeper meaning, supporting not only the spirit of recovery but also the continued flow of economic activity that is essential at a time like this.

As part of its commitment to the communities that have supported the event for nearly 25 years, the organisers of the Reggae Marathon have activated a Hurricane Melissa relief initiative. Care packages will be distributed to families in Negril and Green Island, communities that have long provided volunteers and essential local support to the event when it was hosted in Negril. This effort provides meaningful assistance to the people who have played a significant role in the Reggae Marathon’s journey and legacy.

Created in 2001 by the Jamdammers Running Club of Kingston, the Reggae Marathon was born from a commitment to preserve Jamaica’s long-distance running heritage and stimulate sports tourism. Over the years, it has evolved into a globally recognised event, attracting runners from 25 to 35 countries and strengthening Jamaica’s health and wellness tourism product.

For the first time, the Reggae Marathon will be held in Kingston, offering the capital an opportunity to benefit from the influx of visitors and business activity the event traditionally brings. While honouring Negril’s legacy as its birthplace, organisers note that the relocation comes at a meaningful time. With many communities still recovering from Hurricane Melissa, the ongoing staging of events like the Reggae Marathon helps sustain jobs, support small businesses, and keep the tourism and services sectors active during a challenging period.

Runners have historically come from countries including Germany, Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Switzerland, Ukraine, the Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Sweden, alongside large contingents from the United States and Canada. This consistent international interest has helped provide reliable economic activity for Jamaica year after year.

MEANINGFUL EVENT

“This year’s race means more than ever to us,” said Ian Kelly, chairman of the Reggae Marathon.

“Negril will always be home, and our hearts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Melissa. We are providing targeted relief support in Negril and Green Island to assist those communities as they recover from the hurricane.” He continued, “As we prepare to host runners in Kingston, we are grateful that the event can continue to generate economic activity at a time when Jamaica needs it most. The Reggae Marathon has always represented the strength and spirit of this island, and as we move forward, we remain committed to helping communities recover and rebuild.”

According to data from the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), the Reggae Marathon remains a key driver of visitor arrivals and local spending. In 2023, most overseas participants were between 50 and 64 years old, with 78 per cent coming from the United States and 73 per cent being women. Half of the international runners travelled to Jamaica specifically for the event, while more than a third extended their stay for vacation. The strong participant satisfaction ratings underscore the marathon’s global reputation and enduring value.

“Events like Reggae Marathon play a crucial role in Jamaica’s tourism product,” said Donovan White, director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board. “They not only bring visitors to our shores but also generate meaningful economic activity that supports small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and transportation providers, and this has become even more important following the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Reggae Marathon also demonstrates how sport and tourism can work hand in hand to restore confidence, reinvigorate local economies, and move Jamaica forward with resilience and determination.”

Beyond tourism, the Reggae Marathon has a long-standing tradition of community support. For over a decade, it has donated laptops and technology to students from winning schools, partnered with the Heart Foundation of Jamaica for more than 20 years, and provided gently worn running shoes to students in need.

“The Reggae Marathon has always been about building Jamaica through sport, education, and service,” said Dr Kemroy Johnson, president, Jamdammers Running Club.

“For 25 years, it has provided students with technology and resources, supported local communities, and offered opportunities that extend far beyond the finish line. Though we have moved to Kingston, our goal remains the same.”