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Reggae Marathon winners contented with change of scene
December 08, 2025
The Reggae Marathon, which was staged in downtown Kingston for the first time in its 25-year history, on Sunday, has been deemed a success.
Over 17,000 participants, in the 5K, 10K and half marathon events crammed the streets of the capital for the iconic road race.
Race director, Alfred 'Franno' Francis, said participants were happy with the event, and they intend to continue the race in the nation's capital.
"One thing about road racing is, I like to listen to the participants and what they say. And they have said it was a well-executed event.
"So we look forward to doing better in 2026. We are extremely thankful for how things turned out in our first time here. And as for now it is Kingston," he said.
According to unofficial reports, there were participants from over 20 countries, and Francis is pleased the race maintained its international appeal.
Winner of the female half marathon, Cecile Heinrich, had doubts when it was announced that the race would be moved to Kingston.
"I have been living here (Jamaica) for a year. I am from France. At first, like everyone else, I was a bit disappointed it was not in Negril because Negril is so beautiful," she said.
"Everyone doesn't like change. But after a few months, I was like, it's not too bad. I live here I can do the route. You have the advantage of being from here, kind of. But I really liked it," she expressed.
Winning her event added extra spice to her participation, she said.
"Last year I was also very excited, because I am from France and I never win any race. It's really competitive. So I came second but was really disappointed because I didn't get a statue. So this year I am getting a statue (winning trophy). And it is very beautiful," she commented.
Half marathon winner, Garfield Gordon, said the Kingston route is a bit more challenging but he thoroughly enjoyed it.
"The route was not bad. Negril was easier... this one (Kingston) has a lot of turns. But I still managed to come out and take it home," he said.
"I was happy to reach the finish line, because in the last part it got tough. The first 15k was pretty easy but the real race started at the 15k mark. I had to push to the end.
"I've won the 10k about four times and this is my second time in the half marathon and first time winning it. So I am really grateful," he added.
Gordon took the men's half marathon in 1:12.40, ahead of Kemar Leslie in 1.13.34. On the women's side, Heinrich (1.31.13) finished nine minutes ahead of Dandie Williams in second with 1.40.28.
The men's 10k event went to Ryan Achau in 33.10, with the female equivalent going to Nafamba Florence in 42.25.
Raheem Walker took home the men's 5k in 16.31, while Gizelle James took the female version in 21.38.
