Two male athletes affiliated with Rainforest Seafoods, along with a British female runner competing in the 10K race, were among the standout performers at the MBJ Charity Run on Sunday morning at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.

The annual event, which drew just over 2,000 participants, saw Kemar Leslie, who is rapidly establishing himself as a prominent figure in the racing circuit, claim victory in the 10K male category, with an impressive time of 35 minutes and 59 seconds. Meanwhile, Sharita Whitley, a first-time visitor to Jamaica, secured first place in the female 10K category, completing the race in 49 minutes and 57 seconds.

In the 5K race category, Leslie’s training partner, Dwayne Graham, crossed the finish line in first place with a time of 16 minutes and 38 seconds. On the female side, Rosalee Wedderburn of Impressive Track Club left her competitors behind with a gun time of 25 minutes and four seconds.

Now in its third year, the 10K/5K Run and Walk event aims to raise J$8 million to fund educational grants and scholarships. Sharon Hislop, the commercial director at MBJ Airports Limited, is optimistic about achieving this goal.

“I am absolutely thrilled with the overwhelming support we’ve received this year! When we reached out for sponsorship, the response was truly incredible. It’s a testament to the generosity of our community. This event has gained recognition for being not just a good cause, but an excellent one. All the funds raised go toward education, a cause we know is greatly needed,” stated Hislop-Holt. 

According to the commercial director, the scholarship programme, with its three levels of support, is a source of pride. “Whether you’re an airport employee or part of our community, we aim to assist those in need. Last year, we were able to help over 50 individuals directly and indirectly, and our goal this year is to double our impact.”

The prizes this year included 10 airline tickets, weekends at various island hotels, and gift baskets, which she described as game-changing. 

The event could not have had the impact had it not been for the participants such as Leslie, a chef, who spoke of 2023 being an exceptional year for him. He used the opportunity to encourage runners to eat more fish, noting this was an underlying strength, which girds you and helps you to train hard so they can perform on the day.

In the case of Whitley, whose father is from Clarendon; as a tourist, she searched the web for running events being staged and saw the MBJ Charity race advertised. She decided to register, but not once did she envisage winning the 10K title.

“Basically, I came to Jamaica for vacation, but I love to run. The cost to enter was fantastic. I am absolutely amazed at winning. I am representing England and Jamaica,” she stated, revealing this was her first win.

The other 10K winners included Sheree Bryan and Precious Azarzar of Reggae Mart, who placed second and third, respectively; and Winston Dehaney and Jomo-Rhys Gilman, both representing PureLuv Running.

Major sponsors of the event included Jetblue Airways, Airports Authority of Jamaica, Couples Resorts, Hyatt, Hilton, Dufry, Hospiten, S Hotel, Jamaica Tourist Board, Playa Hotels and Resorts, Goddard Catering, Elite Media Concepts, Tortuga and Reggae Mart.