More than 4,000 participate in Guardian Group’s SHINE 5K Night Run/Walk

The Guardian Group SHINE 5K Night Run/Walk, formerly ‘Keep It Alive 5K Night Runs’, recently made its much-anticipated return after a five-year hiatus.

The first leg of the revitalised event took place at Emancipation Park on May 10, drawing more than 4,000 participants for an unforgettable night of fitness, entertainment, and philanthropy in the heart of New Kingston.

“Tonight, Kingston shines bright with purpose. SHINE — an acronym for Securing Hope for Those In Need — is more than a run; it’s our renewed commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Jamaica. Every stride made and every dollar raised directly supports the expansion of emergency care and vital community transformation across the island,” said Eric Hosin, group president – life, health and pensions, Guardian Group.

Joining the evening’s proceedings were Minister of Health & Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton; Olivia Grange, minister of culture, gender, entertainment and sport; Julian Robinson, member of parliament for South East St Andrew; and Mayor of Kingston and St Andrew, Andrew Swaby, whose presence and support underscored the importance of corporate and civil society support in community transformation and national wellness.

Also in attendance were key representatives from the Kingston-based beneficiary organisations - Project STAR and the Bustamante Hospital for Children - whose continued work is transforming lives across the country.

The Guardian Group SHINE 5K Night Run/Walk supports these institutions as part of its mission to ‘Secure Hope through Innovation, Nurturing and Empowerment’.

After crossing the finish line, participants, sponsors, and supporters gathered in Emancipation Park for a lively post-race celebration featuring an energetic performance by dancehall sensation Agent Sasco, a powerful and unifying close to an inspiring evening.

Since its inception, A Night of Purpose The Guardian Group SHINE 5K Night Run/Walk has raised more than $102 million to support healthcare, youth development, and community renewal across Jamaica.

The next leg of the Guardian Group SHINE 5K Night Run/Walk will take place in Montego Bay next Saturday at Harmony Beach Park, where it will seek to continue the momentum in western Jamaica. Also expected at this event are representatives from Noel Holmes Hospital, the Guardian Group SHINE 5K’s rural beneficiary.

Race Highlights

Women’s Run Winner: Tonya Busse – Time: 21:23

Men’s Run Winner: Garfield Gordon – Time: 15:46

Women’s Walk Winner: Paula Sinclair – Time: 32:58

Men’s Walk Winner: Omroy Samuels – Time: 34:56

Champion Team: Papine High School

Largest Team: MOCA with 121 participants