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‘Big deal’ for MoBay Night Run’s winner who lost roof to ‘Melissa’ - Organisers brand event ‘a huge success’; targeting 10,000 next year
April 07, 2026
Montego Bay pulsed with energy on Saturday night as thousands laced up for the third staging of the MoBay Night Run 5K, turning the city's streets into a celebration of fitness, music, and community spirit.
An estimated 6,500 runners and walkers showed up at Harmony Beach Park from as early as 5 p.m., setting the tone for a pre-carnival atmosphere filled with fireworks, excitement, and non-stop entertainment.
Garfield Gordon of UCT Steppas' and Maldon High's Tracey-Ann Vernon emerged victorious in the male and female 5K run, respectively.
For both winners, the triumph was about more than just crossing the finish line.
Sixteen-year-old Vernon, a first-time champion, shared her excitement after pushing through the discomfort of the heat.
BIG DEAL
"I feel extremely great because the last time I ran, I came fourth. It was hot out there and my feet were burning. However, I pushed through and I made it," said Vernon.
"Coming from the West and being impacted by Hurricane Melissa, it is a big deal for me winning. The hurricane took a part of my roof off, so winning gives me a big boost."
Vernon clocked in 23:22, while 17-year-old Nora Parker (23:32) and Daniveen Campbell (24:36) of Express Fire Service, took second and third, respectively.
Gordon, who retained the men's title, said the temperature was hotter compared to a previous race in Kingston.
"It was hot out there, but the route is better because in Kingston they have more hills, whereas here the route is more flat. I was a bit tired coming into this race because of the long journey from Kingston, but I'm still grateful for the win," he shared.
"My mindset is always to win, and nothing more. I always put in the work so I can win. It is a great feeling to win again like last year and to come out and win every race," added Gordon.
He crossed the line at 15 minutes and 39 seconds ahead of Kemar Leslie (16:14) of Rainforest Seafood, and teammate, Royal Gordon (16:39), who were second and third, respectively.
PROCEEDS
Proceeds from Saturday's event will go towards Anchovy High School, with its focus to restoring hope to the nearly 800 students who are still fighting to recover from Hurricane Melissa's devastation.
For the walkers, the male 5K was won by Duwell Allen of Creation Food Limited, who clocked 25:21, followed Nathan Messam 33:07 of Sagicor and Oliver Brown 37:51 of ETECH.
The female 5K walk was won by Paula Sinclair in 31:59, of UCT Steppas, ahead of Monique Jones, 36:46, of Ocean Signature, and Nidia McFarlane, 38:16, of Island Routes.
Run Squad 876 had the largest group with 75 participants.
According to Howard Ward, Director of the MoBay Night Run, the event has grown 30-35 per cent annually and aims for 10,000 participants next year.
"The run was a huge success. I didn't expect the turnout we got based on Hurricane Melissa. The people turnout to support Anchovy High and support the cause," said Ward.
"The race has been growing steadily because we offer a good product. It's a purpose-driven run, so it's a movement where the people come out and support the city of Montego Bay," he added. "We are shooting for 10,000 participants next year."
