Jamaica 5K Walk & Run: Community, Fitness, and Local Partnerships

Event Overview and Growth

• 🏃‍♀️ The annual Jamaica 5K walk and run will be hosted by the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation on September 27th.
• 📈 The event, founded in 2022, has seen significant growth, from 150 participants to over 400 runners in 2024.
• 🎒 A new on-site bag storage service will be available for the first 450 participants, addressing a key request from previous attendees.

Course Certification and Grand Marshals

• 🏅 The 5K course is certified by the US Track and Field Association, ensuring legitimate times for participants.
• 👑 This year features two grand marshals: Dennis Walcott, President of Queens Library, and Earl Simons, VP of Philanthropy at Mega Evers College.
• 🤝 Both grand marshals are instrumental partners and avid runners who have supported the event's planning and execution.

Community Partnerships and Impact

• 🤝 The Jamaica 5K is a true community event, built on strong connections with local organizations like the Jamaica YMCA, Downtown Jamaica Partnership Bid, and NYC Council member Natasha Williams.
• 🏢 Key partners also include the 103rd precinct, NYC Department of Sanitation, Department of Transportation, MTA, LIRR, Coned, and National GRED.
• 🌟 The race emphasizes community pride, healthy living, and branding downtown Jamaica as a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Event Details

• 🗓️ The event kicks off on September 27th at 8 a.m. at York College.