MoBay Night Run 2026 marked its most successful staging to date, with over 6,000 people registered and a strong turnout flooding the streets of Montego Bay Saturday, in support of educational development initiatives and hurricane relief efforts.

The event, organised by the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation, once again transformed the city into a vibrant hub of fitness, culture, and philanthropy, as thousands of runners, walkers, and supporters united behind a shared mission to empower students across western Jamaica.

Chairman of the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation, Howard Ward, expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming turnout and support, noting that this year’s staging carried even greater significance in light of recent challenges faced in western Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa.

“We are truly humbled by the response this year,” Ward said. “To achieve a record turnout and record funds raised is a testament to the power of community. In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, events like this mean even more because they speak to resilience and the gradual return to normalcy for the west. We are happy to be able to bring this kind of energy and spirit back to Western Jamaica. Every step taken tonight will directly translate into opportunities for students who need it most, and that is what continues to drive everything we do.”

The MoBay Night Run delivered stand-out performances across both running and walking categories. The results reflected both strong athletic performance and the inclusive nature of the event, which continues to welcome participants of all fitness levels.

Alfred Francis, race director, Running Events Jamaica, highlighted the significance of successfully executing the event following the challenges brought on by Hurricane Melissa.

“Executing this year’s run meant a lot more, given everything the western region has experienced in recent months,” he said. “To be able to safely deliver an event of this scale, with record participation, is a testament to the resilience of the community and the dedication of our team and partners.”

A key highlight of this year’s MoBay Night Run is the continued commitment to education, with funds raised from the event earmarked to provide scholarships to deserving students in need across western Jamaica. These scholarships will support academic advancement and help ease financial barriers for students demonstrating both need and potential. In addition, a portion of the funds will be allocated to Anchovy High School to assist with the repair and restoration of critical school infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Melissa. This support will help to ensure a safe and functional learning environment for students and teachers, reinforcing the event’s broader mission of strengthening education through both direct student support and investment in school facilities.

Ready, set, run! At the third staging of the MoBay Night Run 5K Saturday, racers prepare to give it their all as they cross the start line.