Jamaica: Cool Running
Written by Alessandra Gerebizza
Jamaica brings to mind visions of warm weather, beautiful beaches, rum, sugar, and, of course, Bob Marley. However, there’s a new attraction calling people to this gorgeous Caribbean island; the Reggae Marathon. This year, the marathon will take place on December 5. Jamaica’s own premier international marathon is getting lots of attention from amateur and expert runners worldwide. In 2014, more than 150 Canadians made their way south to participate in the race.
The starting line at Long Bay Beach Park borders Negril’s famous 7-mile white sandy beach. The race starts at 5:15 a.m., before sunrise. With Reggae music blasting at each mile marker, runners are motivated to keep going. The course is IAAF certified and features a 10K, a half and a full marathon. Once across the finish line, runners receive the usual runners’ bling medal, but they will also get coconut water, a Red Stripe beer, and a beach party.
The night before the race, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourism Association throws a bash called, “The world’s best pasta party” featuring live dance performances and reggae music that has everyone dancing.
In its fifteenth year, the next Reggae Marathon takes place December 5, 2015. Registration is $100 for the marathon, $95 for the half marathon and $70 for the 10K run. Ya mon!
Of course, a trip to Jamaica is not all about the run. Negril’s powdery white beach is Jamaica’s most famous and among the best in the entire Caribbean. The waters are so warm that they feel like a saltwater jacuzzi. They are also so clear that it’s often possible to see small yellowtail snappers as they glide by.
Negril is also home to some of the best restaurants in Jamaica. Pushcart Restaurant, known for its modern Jamaican cuisine, is in the Rockhouse Hotel. It features an open kitchen, a rum bar, and nightly live entertainment. Cosmos Seafood Restaurant and Bar specializes in fresh, local seafood dishes. Located in the middle of 7-mile beach, guests enjoy the view while they dine al fresco. Don’t miss the action at Rick’s Café. It is a great spot to watch the hundreds of tourists and locals alike who flock there to jump off one of the many cliffs surrounding the bar.
Negril is also home to many beautiful, chic hotels. There are options to suit just about any type of traveller. However, one of the beautiful things about Jamaica is that it is compact. Take advantage and check out some other locations. Negril is about an hour away from Montego Bay. Stay at the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa, located just 40 minutes from Negril in Montego Bay. With seven restaurants, a world-class spa facility and one of the largest pools on the island, the Grand Palladium is the perfect spot to unwind after race day or after a day touring around. If you’re looking to get out onto the blue and turquoise sea for a day, check out Dreamer Catamaran Cruise. You can also explore the coral reefs off the Montego Bay Marine Park or, perhaps you want to head up into the hills. About 1.5-hour drive from Montego Bay, is Nine Mile, which is the final resting place of Bob Marley. It is worth the visit.
However you decide to fill your days, Jamaica will relax you and you will leave feeling pretty “irie.”
reggaemarathon.com
