The vibrant spirit of community, healthy living and giving back was on full display on Sunday, September 6, as thousands of participants converged at the Sangster International Airport for the sixth staging of the MBJ Airports Foundation’s Charity 5K Run/Walk.

Held under the theme “Supporting Academic Dreams”, the annual event brought together competitive runners, walkers, families, corporate teams and supporters in a shared commitment to helping Jamaican students pursue their educational goals. 

The event has raised more than $71 million in educational grants since its inception, directly benefiting more than 3,300 students, with additional support reaching educational institutions and communities.

Running with purpose

Among those who came ready to compete were members of Pacers Running Club, who claimed the top male and female trophies.

Defending champion 18-year-old Evans Tetteh retained the Men’s 5K title in 16:19. Kemar Leslie of Rainforest Seafood followed in 16:32, with Odane Davidson of Grapey Grapey third in 16:36.

Dandie Williams captured the Women’s 5K title in 21:00, improving on her second-place finish last year. Anieta Gutzmore placed second in 21:44, while 17-year-old Gizelle James of Papine High School finished third in 22:20.

For Williams, winning was deeply personal and her way of contributing to the lives of people who need support.

“I was determined to win this year. I’m not able to give millions so the opportunity to make my contribution in this way to support persons in need means a lot,” she shared.

Tetteh was equally motivated by the cause behind the competition.

“My aim this year was to take advantage of the race and the opportunity to help those who will benefit greatly from the contributions,” he said.

Age is no obstacle

The event also offered a powerful reminder that an active lifestyle has no age limit.

Repeat participant Gerline Nelson, who competed at 86 years old, has participated in national and international sporting events for two decades.

“Age is no obstacle to an active lifestyle. My perseverance, determination and consistency have kept me going for the last 20 years of competitive sporting events and I keep doing it because it keeps me healthy,” she shared.

At 76, fellow repeat participant Lawrence Watson also turned in an impressive performance, reinforcing the message that the Run/Walk is an event for people at different stages of life and fitness. Both Nelson and Watson were awarded the most senior entrants in this year’s event.

From seasoned athletes to families and first-time walkers, participants shared a common purpose: supporting students whose educational ambitions may otherwise be limited by financial circumstances.

Corporate Jamaica steps up

The spirit of giving extended to the corporate community, with companies again fielding teams for the event. Rainforest Seafood had the largest number of participants at 109, followed by Hyatt Resorts with 78.

For MBJ Airports Limited Chief Executive Officer Shane Munroe, that collective support is central to the Foundation’s mission.

“As a corporate entity, it’s not just about the business that we are operating but MBJ’s broader commitment to the communities and people that must thrive alongside the airport, hence our focus on education. They are our future leaders; that’s where growth happens in a nation and we are excited to be a part of that. We see the needs and we have staged this event to raise a significant amount of money for our children.”

Munroe also acknowledged the commitment of sponsors who supported the 2026 event despite the challenges facing the tourism and business sectors following Hurricane Melissa.

“We were concerned that some sponsors may not have been able to participate, given the impact of the hurricane, but they came on board. Some are operating hotels that have not yet opened since Melissa, so this is really significant. I believe our sponsors see the impact and the value of the initiative,” he noted.

A community investment

The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), the event’s title sponsor, again provided financial and in-kind support, joining more than 110 sponsors and partners who helped make the event possible.

Richard Gibbs, Senior Director, Commercial Development and Planning, said the initiative reflects the importance of connecting the airport with the communities it serves.

“The Sangster Airport is a strategic asset of the government and as such, the AAJ continues to support MBJ’s efforts to bring the airport and the wider community together for a worthy cause, to give needy students the opportunity to afford an education. It’s even more important given the continued needs following the impact of Hurricane Melissa on this section of the island. Investment in education and community development is an investment in Jamaica’s future.”

Other major sponsors and partners included ZDA Construction, Grand Palladium, Ascend, Afresh and Harbour City Shopping Mall.

The race continues beyond the finish line

The MBJ Airports Foundation Charity Run/Walk has grown into a major fundraising initiative, but its real impact is measured long after participants leave the course.  In 2025 alone, the event raised $30 million, with grants subsequently distributed to needy students and institutions.