Kingston City Run cancelled due to landfill fire

Canadian Running was invited to Kingston, Jamaica, over the weekend to take part in the third annual Kingston City Run. The event features a half-marathon, 10K and 5K races and was scheduled for Sunday, March 15.

Unfortunately, the event had to be cancelled late on Saturday afternoon due to an ongoing landfill fire that was causing blowing smoke to affect local air quality. The Ministry of Health echoed their concerns to event organizers who ultimately chose to cancel.

“We have taken the difficult decision after serious deliberations. While we know everyone was excited to participate in this year’s event, the health and safety of all out participants is paramount,” explains Christopher Jarrett, Co-Chair, Kingston City Run. “We wish to thank all out sponsors and participants for their continued support.”

Temperatures on race morning approached 27C, plus humidity, and mild winds caused smoke from the fire to envelope parts of the city, including those along the race course.

The event expected about 3,000 participants and organizers said they were planning to reschedule.