The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston has an enviable reputation as the Caribbean’s premier business and leisure hotel, and it was no surprise when it was chosen by the organisers of the inaugural Racers Grand Prix to be the hotel, to host over 100 international track and field stars.

This iconic landmark, simply referred to as “Pegasus”, rises 17 stories in the heart of New Kingston, and Nicola Madden-Greig, group director for sales & marketing, told the Jamaica Observer that hotel is extremely excited about partnering with the Racers Grand Prix set for June 11.

“We are ensuring that the athletes who are coming in are going to have a fantastic stay and will be enjoying their stay with us in Kingston in a relaxed environment, so that they can go and produce their best performances,” said Madden-Greig.

“We believe the capital city of Kingston is the best place as we promote it as the sports, entertainment and cultural capital of the Caribbean, so we are very excited to partner once again [and] we look forward to a fantastic meet… and, of course, we invite all those who haven’t decided to stay in a home away from home at the Pegasus,” she added.

Some of the world’s finest runners, jumpers and throwers will converge in Kingston for the historic Racers Grand Prix. Over 100 athletes from 10 countries will compete in 15 track and field events.

“We are also offering reduced and discounted rates for persons who want to come in and spectate and spend the weekend in Kingston. It’s a supporting sponsorship and making sure that we make accommodation,” said Madden-Greig.

The Jamaica Pegasus, which is in the vicinity of major businesses, attractions and entertainment, is just a across the street from Emancipation Park.

The Jamaica Pegasus hotel is one of several corporate companies that came on board to offset the over $100-million budget to make the Racers Grand Prix a reality.

“Jamaica Pegasus hotel is very excited to be the official hotel partners. Sports tourism is a very integral part of our mandate across our hotel group, and this event, we know, will continue to develop what is a great marriage between sports and tourism,” said Madden-Greig, who is also the president of the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association.

Tickets for the event will be available at $5,000 for grandstand finish line; $3,000 dollars for the rest of the grandstand; and $500 dollars for the bleachers.

— Howard Walker