The 2024 Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K held on Sunday, December 8, in Negril was more than a race—it was a celebration of resilience, reunion, and achievement. Against the backdrop of Seven Mile Beach, runners from over 35 countries came together to create memories, each with a story that added depth and meaning to the world-renowned event.
For Jamila Souffrant, a Jamaican American and Reggae Marathon brand ambassador, participating in the event was a deeply personal journey. Running her first half marathon served as a symbolic homecoming to her island roots. It also marked the first anniversary of her debut book, Your Journey to Financial Freedom.
“This experience has been about so much more than the race,” Souffrant said. “It’s a celebration of my heritage and my achievements. Returning to where I was born feels like coming full circle.”
Another standout story was Pieter-Jan Schotsman and Vincent Mertens from Belgium, who completed the half marathon and raised over €1,000 for the Heart Foundation of Jamaica. Inspired by Pieter-Jan’s mother’s heart surgery, the duo wanted to contribute to the charity linked to the marathon. Their gesture was recognized during the event’s media briefing with the presentation of a symbolic cheque.
Resilience was a common theme, as demonstrated by Angelina Kraus from Germany. Despite dislocating her hip mid-race, Kraus returned to her hotel for crutches and resumed the course, determined to cross the finish line. Her unwavering spirit inspired participants and spectators alike.
The event also celebrated love and partnership, exemplified by a newlywed couple from Italy who ran the race together, crossing the finish line like the threshold, to mark the start of their new life as husband and wife.
The inaugural 5K race also added new layers of inspiration. Designed as an accessible entry point to long-distance road racing, the 5K was oversubscribed and saw competitive performances from international runners. Two invited Canadians took first and second place in the female category, setting the course record and showcasing the growing global appeal of the Reggae Marathon event.
Beyond the finish line, the event’s signature activities added to the celebratory atmosphere. The Pasta Party at JamWest’s new entertainment beach complex and the Victory Beach Party at Long Bay Beach Park brought runners and supporters together in a festive environment filled with music and camaraderie.
Race Director Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis summed up the event’s essence: “The Reggae Marathon has always been about more than running. It’s about the stories, the connections, and the triumphs that make each participant’s journey unique. This year, those stories were truly inspiring.”
As the 2024 Reggae Marathon concluded, it left behind another year of remarkable stories and a renewed sense of community among participants worldwide. From personal milestones to displays of resilience and unity, this year’s event highlighted the powerful impact of sport and shared experiences.
