What began as a drag racing facility in Old Hope, Westmoreland, on Jamaica’s western frontier, has evolved into one of the island’s most dynamic and diverse tourist attractions.

Jamwest Motorsports & Adventure Park, once known primarily for its high-octane track days, is now a full-scale adventure and eco-tourism experience drawing repeat visitors from across the globe.

The growth? Nothing short of exponential.

“Even I’m surprised by how fast we’ve grown,” said Andel Griffiths, vice president of sales and marketing at Jamwest. “You have to give credit to our founder, Mr Ian Gordon. His vision and willingness to invest in what he believed in made all this possible.”

From asphalt to all-inclusive adventure

Jamwest’s origin began with speed. The brainchild of Gordon’s vision, over 20 years ago, was to create a drag racing strip that would be Jamaica’s premier drag racing facility. That vision became a reality with the construction of a fully FIA-certified motorsports venue, the first of its kind in Jamaica and arguably the Caribbean.

The original concept was bold: build Jamaica’s premier drag strip and motorsports facility in the remote reaches of Old Hope, Little London.

The Jamwest Racing Circuit has since hosted some of the region’s top-tier motorsport events.

Over time, it transformed into a 395-acre multisport, cultural, and family-friendly attraction, blending motorsports with nature, heritage, and hospitality.

Today, guests can still feel the adrenaline rush on the track, but they can also ride ATVs through wetlands, zipline over race circuits, explore a petting zoo, relax in a mineral bath, or cool off on waterslides. There’s even a Jamaican-style “bobsled” experience modelled after local pushcarts and Olympic lore.

“This isn’t just one experience, it’s layers of Jamaica all in one place,”  Griffiths explained. “We wanted to create a space where guests could feel like they’re exploring the island from every angle.”

Expansion driven by demand

While the original park remains the flagship, Jamwest’s rise has also been marked by geographic growth, including the launch of Jamwest Beach in Negril and the upcoming Jamwest Braco in Trelawny.

“We didn’t expand on a whim,” said Griffiths. “Our expansion was driven by our local and international partners. But we were very intentional; we didn’t want to dilute the brand. Every new property had to offer something even better.”

This careful growth model, focused on quality and authenticity, has paid off.

Innovation rooted in experience

Jamwest’s growth hasn’t just been about more space, it’s been about more meaning. “Innovation for us comes from paying attention,” said Griffiths. “We study what guests are enjoying, listen to their feedback, and then evolve.”

One standout example is the ATV Trail, now a fan favourite. It winds through wetlands, rocky terrain, mountain ridges, and ends at a secluded beach, offering a one-of-a-kind look at Jamaica’s natural beauty.

“Jamaicans who take the trail are surprised by what they see. It’s not just a ride, it’s a journey.”

Community at the core

What truly sets Jamwest apart is how deeply it’s woven into the local community.

“Many of our tour guides live right here. On a zipline tour, a guest might look out and hear a guide say, ‘That’s my house over there,’ or on an ATV ride, point to their parent pushing out a fishing boat,” Griffiths shared. “It adds this deep, authentic connection that you can’t fake. It’s real Jamaica.”

This hyperlocal hiring model has created employment, training, and environmental awareness for people in the surrounding areas while also enriching the visitor experience.

“Our people don’t just work here, they live here, and they’re a part of the community. As a result, they take pride in what they show our guests.”

The future: More of what works

Looking ahead, Jamwest has no plans to slow down. With a strong repeat customer base, consistently glowing reviews, and demand from both tourists and locals, the brand is focused on maintaining its core values while reaching new heights.

“People have visited five, ten, even twelve times. That tells us we’re doing something right.”

The key to staying ahead in a crowded market? Staying true to what makes Jamwest unforgettable.

“We keep listening, planning, and evolving. And we always, always put the guest experience first.”