A run for tourism

HUNDREDS OF tourists are expected to converge on Negril from December 1-3 for the fifth annual staging of the Reggae Marathon and Half Marathon, which has become one of the leading sports tourism events in Jamaica.

Since the inaugural staging in 2001, the event has grown bigger and better and its organisers, the Jamdammers Running Club of Kingston, whose vision is to "bring runners of all nationalities and abilities to Jamaica.

CONTRIBUTED Burt Carlson, 79, of Minnesota in the United States is flanked by Jamdammers Club members Richard Lake and Delrose Campbell after completing a marathon event.

According to race director Alfred 'Frano' Francis, "Reggae Marathon encapsulates the best of the island as it showcases our lush countryside, athletic ability, music, unique cuisine, organizational capability and fine Jamaican hospitality which are all brought together in the world-famous Negril setting."

He said, however, that the value of the event to Jamaica should not only be measured by its appeal to marathoners from around the world but also by the involvement of the many local participants who see the event as an opportunity for community enhancement and to develop and foster healthier lifestyles.

HEALTHY LIVING CONCEPT

The organisers stress the 'healthy living concept' with partners including the Heart Foundation of Jamaica and The Ministry of Health. In a statement the Health Promotion & Protection Division of the Ministry "identified violence prevention as a critical component of the National Policy for the Promotion of Healthy Lifestyles in Jamaica." Marathon running has become quite popular in recent times for persons interested in improving health, controlling weight and getting and staying fit.

Reggae Marathon follows a long tradition of other sporting events which have helped to give Jamaica prominence and attract visitors to the island. These include the Johnny Walker Golf tournament, Jamaica's bobsled team as well as the engaging Reggae Boyz who have also captured the imagination of the sporting world turning the spotlight on Jamaica.

Partners of Reggae Marathon including the Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association and Negril Chamber of Commerce understand the economic impact and positive publicity the event generates. The numbers, according to Jamdammers President Glendon Nam, speak for themselves.

Mr. Nam said in a marketing survey commissioned by his organisation, "since 2001 over 4,000 visitors have been to Negril for the event, 74 per cent of which are foreign nationals. Forty-one Negril hotels have received these visitors, the average stay being six nights." He added, "Last year half of the 400 participants were tourists from over 13 different countries. Reggae Marathon has brought in almost US$4.5 million for Negril, and by extension Jamaica."

MARATHON EXPO

The long weekend of activities kicks off at noon on Thursday, December 1, with the marathon expo and opening of registration at the Couples Swept Away Sporting Complex; and continues into Friday, December 2. The famous 'World's Best Pasta Party' also takes place on Friday, with several hotels from the Negril area expected to participate.

The main event, the Reggae Marathon & Half Marathon, takes place on Saturday, December 3, starting at 5:15 a.m. at the Long Bay Beach Park. Non-participants may continue to enjoy the expo and later that evening the event will climax with the Victory and Awards Ceremony.