The Reggae Marathon

In 2004, my 50th birthday fell on a Saturday. This made the idea of running a marathon on my birthday a distinct possibility. As I looked around to see where marathons were to be held on the big day (i.e. one of those birthdays that end with a zero), one race stood out, Jamaica's Reggae Marathon. Before I knew anything else about it, I knew that it possessed an attribute that was singular and compelling.

After 26.2 miles, you're in Negril!

Whatever else turned out to be true about the race or the course, this much was certain: When you were done running, you'd be in Negril, one of my favorite places on the planet. My wife and I have vacationed there multiple times and I was quite clear that, if there was anyplace at all that might take a bit of the sting out of turning 50, it was Negril. Apart from its resort area (which features some of the best all-inclusives in the Caribbean), Negril is a laid-back enclave that's distinctly hippie in flavor and much less touristy than other areas of Jamaica. And a little bit of research made it clear that the Reggae Marathon was an exceptional event.

Alas, it was not to be; a spate of injuries kept me from running that year. But as a result of my interest in the race, Diane Ellis (the Reggae Marathon's Sponsorship and Marketing Director) and I became regular correspondents on a wide range of subjects ranging from our kids (we've both got sons about the same age) to running (of course). Even though we've never met, Diane and I became great friends via email and Facebook. That's how it came to be that she invited me to be a guest blogger for the race's new blog. It was an offer I accepted eagerly.

So, starting next week, I'll begin guest posting on a range of running-related subjects including — you won't be surprised to hear — barefoot running. I'll let you know when the blog launches and when my posts run. I certainly hope you'll check out the race site. And if you're looking for a first class running event that's just a blast, the Reggae Marathon is one you ought to consider.