The streets of Kingston came alive on Sunday as runners, walkers, families, corporate teams and community supporters converged for the GS 5K Road Race and Walk, staged by Andrews Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The event attracted over 500 participants, including five wheelchair bound persons, united by a common purpose: to promote health and wellness while raising funds and

awareness to support vulnerable individuals and families, including children with disabilities.

The competitive 5K produced a strong field, with Odane Davidson taking the overall male title in 16:14, followed closely by Kemar Leslie in 16:17 and Royale Gordon in 16:40.

In the female 5K, Dandie Williams emerged victorious in 20:47, with Anieta Gutzmore placing second in 21:46 and Sonia Gayle finishing third in 26:59.

The Walk category also delivered impressive performances. Among the males, Duwell Allen was the top performer in 25:53, followed by Samuels Omroy in 31:41 and Baruka Morris in 31:49. In the female category, Natasha McKenzie led the field in 33:26, followed by Deidre Lewis in 35:03 and Karene Staple in 39:37.

Running for a Greater Purpose

While competition was an important part of the day’s activities, organisers emphasised that the true measure of success was the impact the event will have beyond the finish line.

Elder Noel Jumpp, representing Andrews Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church, said the event demonstrated how sport can become a vehicle for meaningful community service.

“Today was about much more than who crossed the finish line first. Every runner, every walker, every sponsor and every person who supported the GS 5K helped us move closer to a more compassionate and inclusive community. We ran for health, but we also ran for hope. We are especially proud that this initiative can help bring greater attention and support to children with disabilities and vulnerable families who need us to stand with them.”

The partnership with Community Based Rehabilitation Jamaica (CBRJ) further underscored the event’s commitment to supporting children and adolescents with disabilities and strengthening access to rehabilitation, education and other essential services.

More Than a Race

The GS 5K is part of the ongoing community outreach efforts of Andrews Memorial

Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Good Samaritan Inn, bringing together faith, community, corporate Jamaica and individuals around a shared commitment to service.

For participants, the event offered an opportunity to pursue personal fitness goals while contributing to a broader social mission. For beneficiaries, the goal is to translate that collective effort into meaningful support, greater access to services and improved opportunities for vulnerable children and families.

Organisers expressed appreciation to the participants, sponsors, volunteers, partner organisations and supporters whose contributions helped make the 2026 staging possible.