Running Events Limited will host its first 5K Cruise Run today beginning 9:30 am, setting off from the Ocho Rios Pier.

An official launch ceremony will take place at 9:15 am today, in part welcoming the 150 runners who arrived in the island aboard the Norwegian Getaway Cruise.

The stopover in Ocho Rios will be the first such by the group, which will be on a seven-day ‘Run for Fun Cruise’ throughout the Caribbean. Other ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Costa Maya.

The 5K Cruise Run in Ocho Rios will include a 1.5K trail run to Mystic Mountain where the runners will spend time enjoying the attraction. The cruise passengers have the rest of the day to tour other attractions in the area before setting sail later that day.

While in Jamaica, the visiting runners will donate running shoes for distribution to students who will participate in other Running Events road races throughout the year.

Organiser of the Cruise Run, Craig Newton, said: “I cannot wait for the group to make their first stop in Ocho Rios and to participate in the run. The runners have no idea as to the treat which is in store for them.”

Race director of Runnings Events Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis said he was delighted that Running Events had been chosen to organise the 5K Cruise Run and expressed hope that this could be the start of many such events to come.

“We have the perfect ports available in Ocho Rios and Falmouth for stopovers for these cruise runs, which are in keeping with plans to grow sports tourism in Jamaica.