NEGRIL — Warm fuzzies and nostalgia describe what I felt upon returning to Negril, Jamaica, early last month.

Following a nine-year absence, I am back to participate in the Reggae Marathon race, and I wonder where the time went.

Running is an activity absent from most people’s vacation-to-do lists, and surprisingly, here I am on my fourth go around.

Oddly enough, this race never loses its excitement.

While Jamaica is most commonly associated with pristine beaches, warm, inviting waters, and Bob Marley music, the island has gradually developed and sustained a solid running culture in recent years, especially since, and who could forget, Usain Bolt, who put Jamaica on the map after winning three gold medals at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

The Reggae Marathon, which recently completed its 23rd year, remains an iconic race associated with Jamaica’s running culture.

For me, it’s more than just a race; it’s an experience that attracts runners worldwide for many reasons.

No doubt, enjoying Negril’s beautiful seven-mile beach hits the top of the list.

In the pre-pandemic era, the race attracted upward of 3,000 international and local runners, from novice to advanced. To this day it has had a remarkable impact on tourism in its host city, Negril.

At a pre-race press conference, I was privy to some exciting changes for runners to expect on race day, and the optimism around rebuilding the race post-pandemic was inspiring.

Rounding out the changes is the enhanced post-race live entertainment and an unprecedented total of 30 music providers throughout the route.

From a runner’s perspective, the more music, the better.

Other changes for the 2023 event were removing the full marathon distance due to low attendance, and the pre-race pasta party, which I was delighted to hear was in the plans to return the following year.

THE START

The Long Bay Beach Park (situated along Negril’s famed beach) is a convenient start and finish for the race, which starts promptly at 5:15 a.m. To build on the panache, you can expect fireworks and running through a torch-lit chamber to add to the fun.

The route is flat (absolutely no hills here), with plentiful hydration stations and friendly locals handing out sealed baggies of water and Gatorade.

As for the weather, expect balmy temperatures around 24C with no rainfall.

Meanwhile the blast of Bob Marley music accompanying you each step of the way and the mile marker signs with inspirational Marley quotes make this Jamaican race experience unique.

THE FINISH

After being greeted by a smiling volunteer who hands you your hard-earned medal, you can now enjoy the après-race activities.

There are misting stations, massages available and plenty of props for photos. You can also enjoy a cool beverage from a freshly cut coconut, or the island’s favourite Red Stripe beer.

However, the best treat post-race is removing your shoes, with toes-in-sand, before jumping into the ocean to cool off.

Now, you’re ready to enjoy the post-race entertainment line-up.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2024?

In addition to its 10km and half marathon, the Reggae Marathon will introduce a new distance later this year, the ever-popular 5km. As explained to us by the race director, this entry-level race distance is currently in place in many races across Jamaica and will be a game-changer in attracting new participants.

“We see a lot of people who wish to pursue a healthy lifestyle. The new distance is inclusive and approachable for many people and can alter the lifestyle in our society and Jamaica,” said race director Alfred Francis.

“We feel responsible for carrying the message of pursuing a healthy lifestyle through running,” he added.

With my high expectations already met over a decade ago, I took absolute pleasure in the sights and sounds of my return to the Reggae Marathon.

It’s a perfect combination to come for the sun and stay for the run.

For more details on the Reggae Marathon check out https://www.reggaemarathon.com/.