For over two decades, the Reggae Marathon, Jamaica’s premier road race event, has proven that its legacy extends far beyond the finish line. 

Now in its 25th year and celebrating its move to Kingston, the Reggae Marathon continues to champion youth development through its long-standing commitment to supporting schools and student athletes across the island.

From its inception, the event’s organising body, the Jamdammers Running Club, has made it a priority to give back to the community, particularly to young secondary student athletes. This commitment began with the very first Reggae Marathon, which featured a 4x5K high school relay event.

Each leg of the relay was a five-kilometre stretch of the half-marathon course, and among the participants of that very first year was retired sprinter Usain Bolt, representing his alma mater, William Knibb High School. 

“From day one, the Jamdammers Running Club has always found ways to assist our student athletes, and the Reggae Marathon is an extension of that giving spirit. Our goal is to support students not only on the track, but also in the classroom, helping them gain access to tools that enhance their digital literacy and overall learning experience,” shared club president Kemroy Johnson.

Since 2008, the Reggae Marathon has upgraded its schools’ championship by providing technology prizes to winning schools. The initiative, which began with desktop computers, now includes laptops and other digital resources that have collectively transformed learning environments.

Over the past 15 years, nearly J$7 million worth of technology equipment and more than J$3 million in cash prizes have been distributed to almost 20 schools across Jamaica, including Holmwood Technical, St. Jago High, Bellefield High, Mavis Bank High, Jamaica College, Vere Technical, Edwin Allen, and Rusea’s High.

These contributions have allowed schools to expand and upgrade their computer labs, giving hundreds of students access to technology that supports classroom learning and academic improvement. For many athletes, these resources have been particularly impactful, helping them strengthen core academic skills alongside their training programmes. Students also receive gently worn running shoes, donated by adult athletes, which was introduced after organisers noticed some students running barefoot. These contributions further support students’ athletic development and participation in the races.

Dean Tomlin, who has been a coach at Bellfield High School for over 30 years and has had over 200 students participate throughout the marathon’s quarter-century history, shared the impact on his athletes: “We use it as a training ground and a motivator for our middle-distance athletes, helping them prepare for championship events. The prizes, especially the computers/laptops, have a real impact academically.”

“Students in the track and field programme can use the computers to complete assignments and projects even when the computer lab is busy. The cash prizes also go back into supporting our athletic programme, covering accommodation, food, and entry fees for future events. The youngsters really look forward to this, and the support from the Reggae Marathon team makes a meaningful difference every year,” he added.

By continuing to invest in education, the Reggae Marathon demonstrates its enduring belief that Jamaica’s youth are the true champions of the future. Through this annual act of giving, the event has built a legacy that merges sport, technology, and education, empowering young minds to go the distance both on and off the track. 

“Our youth are our future, and their digital literacy has never been more important than it is right now. Through the Reggae Marathon, we are proud to play our part in helping improve learning, support the school curriculum, and give students access to a wider world of opportunities,”  said Alfred Francis, race director, Reggae Marathon.

As the Reggae Marathon celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary, its message remains clear: running may start as a sport, but it can finish as a movement, one that continues to shape lives, uplift schools, and inspire generations.