Velocity Eagles Takes Coveted Corporate Combat Challenge Trophy

 The NWC Sports Club in Mona was transformed into a high-energy hub of movement and motivation on Saturday, January 31, as BodybyKurt FitFest 2026 officially kicked off its new series. 

Dubbed the island’s premier fitness lifestyle movement, the event successfully blended high-intensity workouts, health education, and vibrant entertainment to help mitigate the rising tide of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Following a gruelling, high-intensity Spartan-style obstacle course, Velocity Eagles emerged victorious in the signature Corporate Combat Challenge, securing the 2026 title and coveted trophy along with the prize money of J$250,000, and ultimate bragging rights.

The corporate area-based team fought fiercely to win the Combat Challenge ahead of second-placed defending champions, Black Fuse. The competition saw scores of attendees converging on the NWC Sports Club grounds to witness 12 teams battle for the New Year edition title, testing more than just physical strength, pushing contestants to their limits in agility, cardiovascular endurance, and mental toughness.

“It’s a tremendous feeling to walk away with the trophy this year after our attempt last year,” said Obrian Bromfield, Velocity Eagles team captain. “We faced some challenges and the course was relentless, but we persevered. Fitness is more than just going to the gym – it takes consistent preparation as a team and this win is a testament to the work we’ve put in over the last few months.”

National Wellness Priority 

Founded by renowned fitness instructor Kurt Dunn, this first staging in the FitFest 2026 series saw its largest turnout to date. Attendees of all ages and fitness levels engaged in a diverse lineup of activities, including Step Aerobics, Dancehall Fitness, and the landmark “90s to 2000s” aerobics that have become a hallmark of the BodybyKurt brand.

“FitFest has grown from a simple workout session into a national priority,” said Dunn. “The Combat Challenge isn’t just about finding the strongest athlete; it’s about motivating corporate Jamaica and individuals to prioritise their health with the same passion they bring to their boardrooms. Seeing the grit on display proves we are making fitness a lifestyle, not a trend, and we look forward to seeing even more persons for our Summer Body edition, come June 27.”

An energetic 71-year-old Evadney Rose, a member of the Office of the Children’s Advocate (OCA) team, showed great agility along the obstacle course.

“I’m grateful to the OCA for allowing me to participate on the team. I’m always involved in some form of activity and that’s why I volunteered. I feel great! Exercise is very important for my health, and I do a lot of walking and sweeping to keep me moving,” she shared.

Penelope Goldsmith, 67, a first-time attendee at FitFest Party & Expo, has a family history of hypertension and actively engages in exercise activities. “I love this!” she exclaimed. “I take my health very seriously, and I therefore try to exercise consistently, not just for weight loss but because health is wealth.  I’m also a member of a walking club and that motivates me to keep going.”

Dietician Corner JA, one of many sponsors, underscored the importance of nutrition as the key to fitness. “Balancing your diet is not hard.  It’s really about how you prepare your food and manage your diet, based on the status of your health,” said Judy Bartley, Clinical Dietician.

Meanwhile, Christina Wright, Marketing Officer and Events Coordinator at the Heart Foundation of Jamaica encouraged more persons to get screened to protect their heart health. “Screening can begin from as early as 12 years old and, if done, can actually save lives,” she shared.

The event was supported by several sponsors including: 

The Jamaica Pegasus; Office of the Children’s Advocate; LASCO Oats; Lasco Lasoy; Lasco iCool; Curves; Sagicor Life; BCIC; GDI Distribution; National; Pascual Vive Soy; Mayellou Distributors; Really Great Yogurt; Caledonia Advertising; Starlight Production; STRAXEA, Affirm Ambulance Services; Evolution Fitness Gym; 876 Gymnastic Ja.; ZIP FM; BCIC; CHASE Fund and Alpina.