“How hot is it at Reggae Marathon?”  That’s the number one question we get from first-timers to Reggae Marathon.  Yes it’s warm with average start-time temperatures in the mid-20 Celsius range rising a few degrees after the sun comes up.  If you’re coming from a cooler climate and haven’t run in warm conditions prior to coming to Negril, you will need to adjust.  Some of your preparation will be mental and some physical.  Here are some things you can do to enjoy your run in the sun this December 5:

• Wear as little as possible!  And stick with lighter colours.  You will not need any warm up gear on your walk over to the Start Line at Long Bay Beach Park.
• Wear a hat, especially if you’re running in the Half Marathon or Full Marathon.  Keep your head and especially the back of your neck cool.  Take advantage of the water pouches at each Aid Station and squirt some over your head and neck.
• Adjust your pace.  You will run more slowly.  As our good friends at Reggae Runnerz remind us, Reggae Marathon is a ‘Runcation’.  Enjoy the run…and the sun.
• Hydrate.  Water and electrolyte replacement is available at every mile of Reggae Marathon. That’s right, Aid Stations are located at every mile. Water and electrolytes are available in plastic pouches:  Tear off a corner and squirt directly into your mouth.  Less mess…more fluid intake.
• Enjoy the 5:15 am start time.  Especially in the 10K, it is possible to comple your race before the sun comes up.  If your’re running the longer events, know that you are running in the coolest part of the day.
• Visualize running into the cooling Caribbean Sea after completing Reggae Marathon.  The beach is right outside the finish area.  It’s a tradition to swim in your running gear…just remember to take off your running shoes first.

So if you’re up for a run in the Sun in Negril this December, take advantage of our Early Bird Registration Rates and register before July 31: Reggae Marathon Registration.

Until next time…

Reggae Marathon RunninGuy (aka Sugar ‘Tuff Gong’ Bong)

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