The United States is poised to bring the largest group of runners to the 2023 edition of the Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K event, scheduled to take place in Negril from December 1 to 3.
Jamaica will follow closely as the second-largest contingent of participants for this prestigious race, which has already garnered registrations from 25 countries worldwide. Notable among the participating nations are Austria, Bahamas, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Panama, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“The excitement is palpable as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of these runners and walkers to our picturesque island of Jamaica. The Reggae Marathon event has not only gained international recognition for its world-class standards but also for the enchanting beauty of the Negril beachfront and the delightful weather,” stated Alfred Francis.
Will no longer feature an in-person marathon race
In a significant change, this year’s annual run and walk event, known as Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K, will no longer feature an in-person marathon race. According to Francis, this restructuring became necessary because “we faced persistent challenges in providing the same level of care to our marathon participants as those partaking in the Half Marathon & 10K events.”
Discussions regarding this change had been ongoing for some time, but the Board of Directors of this globally recognized sporting event ultimately decided to transition the marathon to a virtual format while retaining the in-person Half Marathon & 10K as part of the local brand’s offerings.
“While we are disappointed to discontinue the marathon race in this beloved run/walk event, this change allows us to concentrate fully on delivering the best possible experience to the participants in our Half Marathon & 10K events, as well as to our dedicated supporters and partners,” Francis explained.
Many have opted for the virtual marathon, half marathon, 10K & 5K events
Many runners from Europe, Canada, and the United States have opted to participate in the virtual marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K events, submitting their race results to receive a race package, which includes a race bag, T-shirt, and a medal.
Participants in this year’s Half Marathon & 10K in Negril can look forward to an enjoyable event in the company of fellow runners from across the globe, many of whom have formed lasting friendships through the years. Race Day will also feature the Silver Birds Steel Band and popular Reggae artiste, Yaksta, as part of the festivities.
Online registration for the Half Marathon & 10K races will remain open until November 30, with on-location registration available in Negril on December 1 and 2.
Read: Reggae Marathon: Jamaica’s premier long-distance road race
