At its core, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association’s (JHTA) Kingston City Run (KCR) is more than a road race—it is a proven platform for social impact. 

Now in its ninth staging, the charity event returns on Sunday, March 15, 2026, mobilising Jamaicans in support of organisations that provide care, dignity, and opportunity to the country’s most vulnerable.

Since its inception in 2013, Kingston City Run has raised more than J$21 million, delivering sustained support to community institutions working on the front lines of homelessness, education, and social care. For 2026, organisers are targeting an additional J$5 million, with proceeds benefiting four long-standing Kingston-based charities, alongside additional assistance earmarked for western parishes most affected by Hurricane Melissa.

One of the key beneficiaries, the Marie Atkins Night Shelter, operated by the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), continues to provide critical support to men and women experiencing homelessness.

Funds from Kingston City Run have enabled facility upgrades, improved sanitation and security, and ongoing support for the Shelter’s annual Feeding Programme. According to Donna-Gaye Brady, Inspector of the Poor at KSAMC, the partnership helps ensure residents are treated with dignity while strengthening the Shelter’s capacity to meet growing demand.

At the Open Arms Development Centre, Kingston City Run support extends beyond shelter to rehabilitation, skills training, and reintegration. Contributions have expanded the Centre’s apiary social enterprise, enhanced counselling and life-skills programmes, and enabled residents to achieve City & Guilds certification. For Natasha Gabbidon-Blake, General Manager, the impact is clear: Open Arms provides not just stability, but second chances and sustainable pathways forward.

The legacy of transformation continues at the Alpha Institute, which for more than a century has shaped at-risk youth through education, discipline, and music. Kingston City Run contributions to the Alpha School of Music have funded instruments, learning materials, and professional workshops that continue to influence students long after race day. Sister Susan Frazer, RSM, Executive Director, notes that this support equips young people with skills and confidence that can change the trajectory of their lives.

Completing the beneficiary group are the Missionaries of the Poor, founded in Kingston and now serving globally. Their work with the homeless, elderly, disabled, and abandoned reflects the compassion and service ethos that Kingston City Run seeks to amplify year after year.

This year’s theme, “Pirates Run Di City,” brings creativity and community spirit to the cause, inviting participants to form Pirate Teams, don themed attire, and run not just for medals, but for meaning. The event will also feature a student competition, special partner deals via Gustazos, and a practice run on Saturday, 8 February 2026, at 5:00 am.

Participants may choose between a 5K Run/Walk/Wheel or a 10K Run, following scenic routes through Kingston’s most iconic streets before culminating at Emancipation Park—a fitting backdrop for a day where movement meets mission.

Adding national momentum to the cause, World Championships gold medallist Oblique Seville joins Kingston City Run as 2025 Race Ambassador, using his platform to encourage Jamaicans to unite through fitness and compassion. His involvement reinforces the event’s central message: every stride can make a difference.

Joining Seville on the Ambassador team are Kurt Dunn of Body By Kurt Fitness, Stokely Rose, CEO of TrainFit Club Jamaica, philanthropist Debbie Bissoon, and Brittney Clarke, 2025 Jamaica Festival Queen, each lending their influence to amplify messages of health, hope, and humanity.

As Kingston continues to lead as the Sports, Entertainment, and Cultural Capital of the Caribbean, Kingston City Run stands as a reminder that collective action—powered by community, corporate partners, and everyday citizens—can transform lives.

Registration and donations are open at: www.kingstoncityrunja.com | www.gustazos.com

Sponsors and Partners

Kingston City Run 2026 is made possible through the support of valued sponsors and partners, including: Airports Authority of Jamaica • Jamaica Tourist Board • RJR/Gleaner • JHTA • Courtleigh Hospitality Group • Jamaica Observer • GK Foods • Altamont Hotels • Rainforest Seafood • S Hotels • Mayberry Investments • Supreme Ventures