5 reasons you should run Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon

If you are still planning your races for the 2023 season, you might want to add one more to the calendar. Since 2001, the Reggae Marathon in December has become a staple on local and international road race calendars. This past year, the race hosted more than 1,000 runners from 20 different countries on the sunny shores of Negril, Jamaica.

Here are five reasons why you should end your 2023 running season in Negril:

The conditions

As Canadians, we often hope for the perfect race day. Runners will look at the weather 14 days in advance to ensure it isn’t too cold or windy for an upcoming race. At the Reggae Marathon, you “don’t need to worry, about a thing,” because the weather is gonna be alright!

Race day temperatures in Negril usually range from 15 to 22 C, which is a lot warmer than races in Ottawa, Winnipeg or Edmonton in early December.

End your season on a beach

What more motivation do you need? Cool off from your marathon, half-marathon or 10K in the Caribbean Sea. We can promise the beach will be all you think about during the race.

Experience the culture

The Reggae Marathon has to be the most “chill” marathon in the world. At each mile marker, runners are greeted with traditional reggae music from Jamaican groups. If you’re a Bob Marley fan, you’ll hear all his greatest hits as you cruise by.

The race kicks off at 5 a.m. with a fire ceremony. If you have an appetite after the race, sit down on the beach and enjoy a traditional jerk chicken sandwich with a Red Stripe lager, or if it’s too early for a beer, some authentic Jamaican coffee. 

Flat and fast course

All three races are run along Norman Manley Blvd., which runs alongside Negril’s breathtaking Seven Mile Beach. The marathon is two loops of the half-marathon course,which is super flat, with an elevation gain of only 40 metres. 

Stay for the vacation

Come for the race but stay for the week. In Jamaica, there’s no need to rush anywhere, especially after a marathon. Kick back and relax with a drink at your resort or at the world-famous Rick’s Cafe. 

The 2023 Reggae Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023. If you are interested in running the marathon, half-marathon or 10K, you can check out more about the race here.