OCTOBER 1, 2025
(Kingston, Jamaica) At a vibrant media launch today, organizers of the world-renowned Reggae Marathon officially announced that Jamaica’s premier international running event will celebrate its historic 25th anniversary in Kingston for the first time on December 7, 2025. This move from Negril, its home for 24 years, coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Jamdammers Running Club, the founding organization behind the event.
The 2025 Reggae Marathon will feature World Athletics certified courses for the Half Marathon, 10K, and a 5K, guiding runners through Kingston’s cultural landmarks, including the National Gallery, the Supreme Court, and Water Lane’s Artwalk, before finishing along the waterfront. “The transition to Kingston represents an exciting opportunity to showcase the versatility and appeal of the Reggae Marathon brand,” said Ian Kelly, Chairman of Reggae Marathon. “Participants will experience world-class organization and authentic Jamaican hospitality against the dynamic backdrop of our capital city.”
International Appeal, Accessibility and Cultural Immersion
With a tradition of welcoming participants from a minimum of 25 countries annually, strong representation is expected from Jamaica, the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, and Japan. The popular 5K, introduced in 2024, will continue to attract corporate teams and first-time runners. The Jamaica Tourist Board endorsed the move as a boost to winter tourism and sports tourism in Kingston. “The Reggae Marathon’s move opens exciting possibilities for showcasing Jamaica to our international running community,” said Peter Mullings, Deputy Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board. “It encourages extended stays and exploration of Kingston’s rich cultural offerings.”
Race logistics will be coordinated by Running Events Jamaica to ensure seamless execution. “From course certification to support stations with reggae music at every mile, every detail is designed to honor the Marathon’s 25-year legacy while highlighting Kingston’s unique character,” said Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis, Race Director.
Recognizing Impact Through Prizes and Youth Development
Beyond athletic prestige, the Reggae Marathon continues to make a meaningful impact through its robust prize offerings and commitment to youth development. A prize pool exceeding JMD $1.5 million will be distributed across race categories, rewarding top finishers with cash prizes, trophies, and commemorative awards. Central to this effort is the High School Boys & Girls 10K
Championships, which not only celebrate rising talent but also support digital literacy by donating laptops to winning schools. At the launch, the 2024 winners were recognised – including St. Jago High School in first place (three laptops), Holmwood Technical High School in second place (two laptops), and Bellefield High School in third place (one laptop). These contributions underscore the Reggae Marathon’s role in advancing both sporting excellence and educational opportunity for Jamaica’s youth.
Celebrating Jamdammers’ Legacy
The 2025 event holds special significance as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Jamdammers Running Club, which has been instrumental in developing Jamaica’s road racing culture since 1994. The club’s three decades of dedication to promoting both elite and recreational running culminate in this milestone celebration. “Moving to Kingston for our 25th anniversary allows us to showcase a different side of Jamaica’s beauty while honoring both our event’s legacy and our 30-year-old club’s promotion of 25 years of long distance racing in Jamaica. We’re excited to offer participants a completely new perspective on Jamaican culture and hospitality all, while highlighting the true meaning of road running in Jamaica,” shared Dr. Kemroy Johnson, President of Jamdammers Running Club.
Traditional race weekend highlights will continue, including the ‘World’s Best’ Pasta Party, race packet collection services, and the signature Victory Party and Awards Ceremony. Winners will receive the prestigious Bob Marley and Rita Marley trophies, while all finishers will earn commemorative medals and official 25th anniversary Reggae Marathon t-shirts.
Registration information and detailed race weekend schedules are available at www.reggaemarathon.com. Race day begins early on December 7, with the Half Marathon and 10K starting at 5:15 AM and the 5K at 5:25 AM.
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About the Reggae Marathon
Established in 2000, the Reggae Marathon has grown to become one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious running events, combining world-class athletic competition with authentic Jamaican culture and hospitality. The event features World Athletics-certified courses for Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K distances, attracting participants from around the world to experience Jamaica’s unique blend of competitive running and musical heritage.
About Jamdammers Running Club
Founded in 1994, the Jamdammers Running Club is Jamaica’s premier road racing organization, dedicated to promoting recreational and competitive running throughout the island. The club organizes numerous events annually and has been instrumental in developing Jamaica’s running culture over three decades.
For Additional Information, Please contact:
Garrick Communications | 876-677-6378 | [email protected]
