MBJ Airports Foundation Limited, the philanthropic arm of MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ), operator of Sangster International Airport, has opened registration for the 2026 MBJ Charity Run/Walk, scheduled for Sunday, September 6, at Sangster International Airport.

Registration closes September 1 and is available online at www.runningeventsja.com.

Hosted under the theme “Supporting Academic Dreams,” the 5K Run/Walk marks six years of grant support for students across western Jamaica. Since its launch, the initiative has surpassed $71 million in educational grants, reaching over 3,300 students directly with hundreds more benefiting indirectly.  

“The $30 million raised from the 2025 staging came at a critical time and went directly towards supporting students and educational institutions rebuilding in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, predominantly across western and southern Jamaica.  This support proved especially significant given the severe impact on schools and institutions in these regions, where learning was extensively disrupted,” said Sharon Hislop-Holt, Manager, Commercial Business Development and Marketing, MBJ Airports Limited and Director of the Foundation.

This year’s initiative will be a continuation of those efforts aimed at supporting the education pursuits of individual students as well as institutions.  It is also a reflection of MBJ Airports Foundation’s commitment to inspire hope and provide impactful support by funding educational opportunities for students in need. 

Participants are encouraged to arrive early to benefit from the warm-up session, beginning at 5:30 a.m., with the race starting at 6:00 a.m.  Signage will be along the roadway to direct participants to the designated airport parking areas and the MEET parking lot on Jimmy Cliff Boulevard in Montego Bay.

“Every registration and every dollar raised brings us closer to helping another student stay in school. Over the years, we have seen the difference this initiative makes in communities, not just across the west, but islandwide. This year we are aiming to create an even greater impact,” Hislop-Holt continued as she outlined the prizes awaiting participants, including hotel stays, airline tickets and many more. “These rewards are not limited to top finishers only, as bib numbers will be randomly drawn throughout the morning’s activities, giving every participant a chance to win amazing prizes,” she added.

Registration Details

Adults:                             $2,500

Children 12 and under:   $1,500

Group of 15 or more:       $2,000 per person

Event shirts are sold separately at $2,500.

Grant Applications

Alongside registration, the Education Grant Award application is now also open to students and community organisations seeking support. Grant applications close September 30 and must be submitted through the online platform at www.mbjairport.com/mbj-charity-run/walk-grant-guidelines-application.

The Run/Walk is powered by Running Events Jamaica and supported by a wide network of corporate sponsors and partners, including title sponsor – the Airports Authority of Jamaica.

Follow MBJ on Instagram at mbjairportsltd for updates related to race day.