Reggae Marathon’s Kingston course earns int’l certification

THE REGGAE Marathon is again ensuring its global road race status with the official certification of its new course in downtown Kingston as part of the historic milestone for the 25th staging of one of Jamaica’s premier sporting events.

The newly mapped route, which includes distances of 5 kilometres, 10 kilometres, and a half-marathon, has been officially measured, marked, and certified for World Athletics (WA) and USA Track & Field (USATF) competition. The certification was granted on August 6, months ahead of the December 7 race date.

This recognition elevates the Reggae Marathon into a global category of elite events. For athletes – whether competitive, recreational, or internationally based – the certification ensures that their times on Jamaican soil will be recognised by international bodies for qualification to global events, including the Olympics.

“Having come to Kingston, we confirm that the World Athletics certification for the 25th staging’s course is critical for maintaining elite global competitive standards,” said Alfred Francis, race director of the Reggae Marathon.

While the event’s original Negril course was also certified for its 24-year run, the new Kingston course has now undergone official certification. The transition to the capital city – known as the cultural and creative heart of Jamaica – ushers in a new era for the race, preserving its long-standing reputation for excellence.

The process, conducted by a WA/USATF-recognised course measurer, involved precise calculations using a calibrated bicycle method to chart every turn and stretch of the race. The course was then mapped and submitted for final review and certification, valid for four years.

This internationally recognised process is far more than a technical checkbox – it is the gold standard for accuracy, fairness, and legitimacy in road racing. It also solidifies Jamaica’s standing in the sports tourism landscape, where race quality and certification often determine where elite athletes and serious road racers choose to compete.

Iconic landmarks

The shift from Negril to downtown Kingston is more than logistical – it’s symbolic. Runners will now traverse a course lined with such as the National Gallery of Jamaica, Bank of Jamaica, the Supreme Court, the Save Our Children Crying Monument, the Rae Town Fishing Village, the Kingston Waterfront Boardwalk, and the vibrant murals of Water Lane’s Artwalk Kingston.

The course is not just a physical challenge; it’s a curated experience through Kingston’s past, present, and evolving future. From colonial-era churches to modern art districts, the route offers a visceral connection to Jamaican heritage and identity. The use of music along the course remains, showcasing reggae and culture as integral parts of the event.

The race’s growing international reputation also gets a significant boost from this move. With past participants from more than 40 countries, Reggae Marathon has consistently attracted runners eager to combine competition with culture. The new certified Kingston course adds a layer of athletic credibility that ensures those efforts are globally acknowledged.

The race is already known for its festive atmosphere, warm hospitality, and signature pre- and post-race celebrations. With a new home in Kingston and an internationally certified course, the Reggae Marathon now offers athletes the rare opportunity to chase world-class times in the birthplace of reggae music.

As Jamaica continues to position itself as a force in both athletics and cultural tourism, the certification of the Reggae Marathon’s Kingston course stands as a symbol of what’s possible when heritage, sport, and international standards converge.