Reggae Marathon - 5 years and running!

FIVE YEARS after it made its debut, the Reggae Marathon and Half Marathon have firmly established Jamaica as a marathon destination.

The intent, according to Race Director Alfred 'Frano' Francis was to spread the message that people could change their lives and become healthier through running. "We also wanted to develop a product that would showcase the best of Jamaica in terms of natural resources, music, food, hospitality and of course our athletic ability. We are already famous for sprinting but we knew that Jamaica could also establish a reputation for distance running and road racing - locating the event in Negril just adds spice to everything."

That is the aim of the Jamdammers Running Club of Kingston, the organisation that gave birth to Reggae Marathon. This year, as the club celebrates its 10th anniversary, it is well on the way to realising its dream for the event.

Over past four years Reggae Marathon has attracted over 2,100 participants; 74 per cent of whom were overseas visitors to Jamaica from over 16 countries. This, says Assistant Race Director, Gina Harrison, was revealed in a 2004 survey of participants which shows that the "average stay is just under six nights spread over 41 Negril hotels, resulting in a favourable economic impact on Negril and Jamaica's tourism." The economic impact on the Negril area since the event's inception is estimated to be at a minimum US$4.5 million - proof that an annual event of this type can only reap rewards for the host community. She added, "Jamaica has also received tremendous overseas media exposure and of course our website is one of the most popular in the island."

The event has drawn participants from all spheres, each anxious to perform at his or her personal best, whether he or she chooses to walk or run. "For the majority of participants, the marathon is more about endurance and achieving one's personal fitness goals than it is about winning," says Francis. He adds, "The event is open to anyone who is willing to take on this ultimately fulfilling challenge."

A highlight of this year's marathon is The Gleaner Challenge, a sponsored feature that has given five participants the opportunity to improve their lifestyle.

Says Jamdammers President Glendon Nam, "Our club is comprised of a group of fitness enthusiasts who are basically unselfish and hard working people that are committed to excellence. This is what has contributed to the growth of Reggae Marathon over the years. The response, especially from the Negril community, our sponsors and volunteers is very encouraging and we hope this will continue."