Adam Stewart Proposes Half-Marathon for Jill Stewart MoBay City Run’s 10th Anniversary
In a recent announcement during the media launch of the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run (JSMCR) at Sandals Montego Bay in St. James, Adam Stewart, the executive chairman of Sandals Resort International, expressed his vision for a half-marathon to be included in the event’s 10th anniversary celebration next year. The JSMCR, which includes a 10K and 5K walk-run event, was renamed in honor of Stewart’s late wife, Jill Stewart, who was a dedicated supporter of the initiative before her passing from cancer in July 2023.
Stewart’s proposal comes as part of a broader plan to elevate the annual event, which is set to take place on Sunday, May 4, 2024. During the launch, he stated, “If you say it publicly, then it has to happen, so we should make this event a half-marathon next year and bring it to the next level.” His enthusiasm resonated with the audience, drawing cheers of approval as he highlighted the potential impact the expansion could have on Montego Bay.
A half-marathon covers a distance of approximately 21 kilometers, or 13 miles, more than double the maximum 10-kilometer distance currently offered by the JSMCR. Stewart emphasized that taking this step would not only enhance the event’s appeal but also significantly contribute to the culture of wellness within the community. “This will bring the ‘next level’ to the town. That is what we do: push boundaries and take it to the next level,” he remarked.
Renewed appreciation was also expressed by Stewart towards the JSMCR organizers for their efforts in honoring his late wife’s memory. He highlighted her passion for education and sports, particularly running, as core elements that the event embodies. “This event pulls our city together, and it unifies us overall,” Stewart stated, underlining the significance of combining sports with educational benefits. The JSMCR, which was originally launched in 2013 as the MoBay City Run, was renamed after Jill Stewart in 2024, marking a significant emotional milestone for the community.
During the launch, Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon also shared his vision for the upcoming event, declaring that the week prior to the JSMCR would be recognized as a wellness week. He pointed out the need for a greater focus on health, particularly concerning prevalent issues such as cardiovascular disease and hypertension. “Events like these help us to focus on health and wellness,” Vernon said. He expressed his support for the new event model, emphasizing the importance of promoting well-being within the community.
This year’s route for the 5K run and walk will start at Harmony Beach Park in downtown Montego Bay, proceeding along Howard Cooke Boulevard towards Alice Eldemire Drive. Participants will then make a U-turn at the Coconut Drive roundabout to return to Harmony Beach Park. The 10K run will have participants travel from Harmony Beach Park to the nearby Montego Bay Freeport Police Station before returning to the starting point, enhancing safety and participation engagement.
As the JSMCR gears up for its 10th anniversary, plans for expansion into Miami and New York were also hinted at, indicating a broader interest in promoting the event internationally. This move could help bring more visibility to Montego Bay and reinforce its standing as a destination for health and wellness tourism. The evolution of the JSMCR not only serves to memorialize Jill Stewart but also invigorates the entire Montego Bay community in its quest for wellness, unity, and remembrance.
