UCT Steppas’ Garfield Gordon and Maldon High School’s Tracey-Ann Vernon copped the male and female 5K run titles, respectively, at Saturday night’s third staging of the MoBay Night Run 5K Run/Walk, which transformed the city into a vibrant hub of energy, fitness, and celebration.
Road runners came alive, with over 6,000 participants energising the environment from as early as 5 p.m.
The runners and walkers gathered at Harmony Beach Park, creating a carnival-like atmosphere filled with fireworks, live entertainment and excitement.
Gordon, who retained the title, said despite feeling tired after a long journey from Kingston, he is grateful.
“My mindset is always to win, and nothing more. I always put in the work so I can win. It is a great feeling to win again like last year, and to come out and win every race,” Gordon said.
“I have participated in all the races in February and March, so my next one is the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run in May.”
Gordon, crossed the line in 15 minutes and 39 seconds, finishing ahead of Kemar Leslie (16:14) and Royal Gordon (16:39) of Rainforest Seafoods.
Sixteen-year-old Vernon expressed excitement about winning a 5K run, though the heat caused her feet to burn.
“Coming from the west and being impacted by Hurricane Melissa, it is a big deal for me, winning. The hurricane took a part of my roof off, so winning gives me a big boost,” said Vernon.
“I feel extremely great, because the last time I ran I came fourth. It was hot out there and my feet were burning. However, I pushed through and I made it,” added Vernon.
Vernon clocked 23:22, while 17-year-old Nora Parker (23:32) and Daniveen Campbell (24:36) of Express Fire Service, took second and third, respectively.
Proceeds from Saturday’s event will go towards Anchovy High School, with its focus on restoring hope to the nearly 800 students who are still fighting to recover from Hurricane Melissa’s devastation.
Duwell Allen of Creation Food Ltd won the the male 5K walk, clocking 25:21 to finish ahead of Nathan Messam (33:07) of Sagicor and Oliver Brown (37:51) of ETECH, second and third, respectively.
Paula Sinclair of UCT Steppas won the 5K walk in 31:59, finishing ahead of Monique Jones of Ocean Signature (36:46) and Nidia McFarlane of Island Routes, 38:16.
Run Squad 876 had the largest group with 75 participants.
According to Howard Ward, director of MoBay Night Run, the event has grown by 30-35 per cent annually and there is the aim of having 10,000 participants next year.
“The run was a huge success. I didn’t expect the turnout we got, based on Hurricane Melissa. The people turned out to support Anchovy High and support the cause,” Ward said, noting the cause is real.
“We are shooting for 10,000 participants next year. The race has been growing steadily because we offer a good product. It’s a purpose-driven run, so it’s a movement where the people come out and support the city of Montego Bay,” added Ward.
