A record number of runners from around the globe converged in Jamaica to participate in the recently held ninth annual Reggae Marathon. Reggae Marathon/Half Marathon and 10k, dubbed Jamaica’s premier International Marathon Event, took place along the scenic Negril coastline and attracted a host of sports enthusiasts, locals and visitors alike, who had the chance to experience the island’s beauty while competing in their quest for gold.
“We are pleased with the local and international support for Reggae Marathon,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “Events of this nature invite tourists to experience the island’s diverse offerings and help to position Jamaica as the health and wellness destination of the Caribbean.”
The event, which saw a record number of over 1000 registrants, was also graced by Jamaican celebrity Rohan Marley, son of the legendary Bob Marley, who ran the Half Marathon and completed in 2:54:08. The Reggae Marathon champions were, Rupert Green of St. Catherine, Jamaica who captured the gold in the men’s division at a time of 2:31:50, after failing to complete the race last year, while Terri Rejimbal, of Florida USA dominated the course and emerged the female champion and won in 3:00:56.
A number of local and international charities that benefitted from the Reggae Marathon event included Heart Foundation of Jamaica, YellowBird Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization in Canada, whose proceeds go towards educational initiatives in various travel destinations; Joints in Motion who raised money for the USA Arthritis Foundations and many other charities.