Escape to the Island: Jamaica’s emerging running scene

EVENT: Kingston City Run
DATE: March 2017
DESTINATION: Kingston, Jamaica
DISTANCE: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon
FEES: $25–75
WEB: Kingstoncityrun.com

Jamaica’s capital and largest city sits on the southeastern coast of the island and is home to nearly one-third of its residents. Kingston is a bustling, historic and at times hard-done-by city that has and continues to undergo transformation and regeneration.

Kingston played host to the 1966 Commonwealth Games and now serves as a major training base for some of the country’s top track athletes including Usian Bolt, Yohan Blake and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. It also hosts many of its spirited championships and competitions that attract fans from near and far.

While track and sprinting remain the most popular version of the sport in Jamaica, the rise of road running as a mass participation activity is evident in the growing number of races and events that now take place.

What better way to escape the cold and cruel Canadian winter than to jet off to the Caribbean for some sun and a run? One excellent option is the Kingston City Run, which celebrated its fourth year in 201d and continues to grow in both size and popularity. The event takes place in mid-March when temperatures are still moderate and precipitation is low.

Being the birthplace of reggae, ska and dancehall, the festivities begin on Friday with a boisterous Carnival Party at Mas Camp, located just outside the Jamaican National Stadium. Saturday features the expo as well as a pre-race carb loading party in association with Kingston Kitchen where participants and visitors are encouraged to explore some of the city’s unique cuisine.

Sunday is race day and participants can choose between 5K, 10K or the half-marathon. Each offers a scenic city tour that highlights some of Kingston’s most iconic attractions and historical landmarks. The races start early to beat the heat and humidity and participants are treated to generous refreshments and local entertainment after the finish.

When you find time, be sure to check out Kingston’s local and nearby landmarks and notable destinations such as Bob Marley Museum, Devon House and the Hope Botanical Gardens. Escape the city and explore the nearby Fort Clarence Beach, Blue Mountain coffee plantations and Fern Gully near Colgate.

Where to Eat

Don’t leave town without sampling the world-famous I-scream at Devon House. More casual and fine dining can be found at Eden Gardens (39 Lady Musgrave Rd.) and Redbones Blues Cafe (1 Argyle Rd.). For authentic Jamaican fare try to find a local patty place, sample some fresh seafood or try anything with Jamaican jerk spice.

Where to Stay

The race starts and finishes in Emancipation Park, in the heart of new Kingston which offers a number of quality and convenient hotel options.

Spanish Court (1 St Lucia Ave.) is Kingston’s newest premier hotel. Offering exceptional service and outstanding amenities, the hotel also serves incredible Jamaican-inspired dishes with an international flare. This is worth the splurge.

Jamaica Pegasus Hotel (81 Knutsford Boul.) stands 17 stories high and towers over Emancipation Park and has built the reputation as another of Kingston’s preferred hotels. In addition to spacious rooms and quality service, the Pegasus offers runner-friendly amenities such as an outdoor pool and running track.

If you’re looking for something a tad more exotic, Rafjam Bed and Breakfast is located at the foothills of the Blue Mountains near Irish Town and is only a 40 minute drive from New Kingston. It offers a serene escape from the busy city and features cozy accommodations, quality service and traditional cuisine.

How to Get There

Kingston is serviced by the Norman Manley International Airport, which is 20 minutes from downtown. Don’t be surprised if your trip to and from the city is slightly delayed due to a cow, goat or dog lounging on the roadway.