Negril, Jamaica – The 2024 Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K got here to a memorable shut on Sunday, December 8, in Negril, Jamaica. Set in opposition to the gorgeous backdrop of Seven Mile Seashore, the occasion was greater than only a race—it was a testomony to resilience, connection, and private achievement. With contributors from over 35 international locations, the occasion delivered tales that underscored its global appeal and profound which means.
For Jamaican-American Jamila Souffrant, a Reggae Marathon model ambassador, the race was deeply private. Working her first half marathon symbolized a homecoming to her Jamaican roots and coincided with the primary anniversary of her ebook, Your Journey to Financial Freedom.
“This expertise is about greater than operating,” Souffrant shared. “It’s a celebration of my heritage and accomplishments. Returning to my birthplace appears like a full-circle second.”
One other story of function got here from Belgian runners Pieter-Jan Schotsman and Vincent Mertens, who raised over €1,000 for the Coronary heart Basis of Jamaica in honor of Pieter-Jan’s mom’s coronary heart surgical procedure. Their philanthropic effort was acknowledged through the occasion with a ceremonial cheque presentation on the media briefing.
Resilience was on full show by way of contributors like Germany’s Angelina Kraus. Regardless of dislocating her hip mid-race, she returned to her lodge for crutches and rejoined the course, decided to cross the end line. Her perseverance moved fellow runners and spectators alike.
Love additionally discovered a novel place within the occasion. An Italian newlywed couple ran the race hand in hand, crossing the end line collectively as they started their journey as husband and spouse—a poignant image of partnership and new beginnings.
Inaugural 5K
This 12 months additionally launched the inaugural 5K, designed to make long-distance operating accessible to extra contributors. The occasion exceeded expectations, with standout performances from worldwide opponents. Two Canadian runners dominated the ladies’s class, securing first and second place and setting a brand new course document. The success of the 5K underscored the Reggae Marathon’s increasing world attain and its inclusive enchantment.
Off the course, the celebrations continued with the long-lasting Pasta Social gathering held at JamWest’s new leisure seaside advanced and the Victory Seashore Social gathering at Lengthy Bay Seashore Park. These signature occasions introduced collectively runners, supporters, and locals in a vigorous environment of music, meals, and camaraderie.
The Occasion
Race Director Alfred “Frano” Francis mirrored on the occasion’s affect: “The Reggae Marathon is about greater than operating. It’s concerning the unbelievable tales, the connections, and the triumphs that make each participant’s journey particular. This 12 months’s occasion was really inspiring.”
Because the 2024 Reggae Marathon concluded, it left behind not solely an array of unforgettable tales but in addition a renewed sense of group amongst runners worldwide. From private milestones to shows of resilience and unity, this 12 months’s occasion affirmed the transformative energy of sport and shared experiences.