KINGSTON, Jamaica — Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club launched its 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride on Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel, where local and international cycling enthusiasts gathered for a meet and greet ahead of the ride around the island this weekend.

The main event on Saturday is set to see cyclists from across the island ride from the Pegasus Hotel to Jamwest Beach in Negril, marking a major milestone in promoting cycling as both a sport and tourism opportunity for Jamaica.

Simmonds High Velocity Cycling President, Coach Carlton Simmonds, explained that the launch on Thursday was more than just an introductory event; it was a chance for cyclists to unite and share their passion for the sport.

“Cycling for me is my life,” Simmonds shared with Observer Online, emphasising the health benefits and eco-friendly nature of cycling.

During the launch, the club took the opportunity to recognise the contributions of the Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board, John Lynch. Lynch was presented with an award for his unwavering support of cycling development across the country, particularly his efforts to promote Jamaica as a cycling destination.

Managing Director of the Jamaica Observer Media Group, Dominic Beaubrun, who was in attendance, shared his excitement with Observer Online about the potential for cycling to become a pillar of Jamaica’s tourism industry.

“From a tourism aspect, cycling can be built up locally to stage and host these things,” he explained. “It will work well for externals, but to build capacity internally [we need] more events like this one that couch Simmonds is doing. It will be more beneficial to create interest at a local level and even at an external level so that people can come and participate and get a sense of the magnificence of the Jamaica landscape from a cyclist perspective.”

Beaubrun also highlighted that the event holds special significance in the international cycling community. He explained that the World Cycling Federation has recognised Jamaica as one of its few locations in the western hemisphere as part of its points accumulation system.

“Jamaica is one of the few places in the Caribbean and the western hemisphere where cyclists can earn points that qualify them for major international events,” he said.

Speaking at the launch on behalf of the Jamaica Tourist Board, Marion Ebanks praised the event, noting that it offers a unique opportunity to blend community, sport and the beauty of Jamaica’s diversity.

The 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride will officially start at 4:00 am on Saturday, October 19 from the Pegasus Hotel.

There will be several rest stops along the way, including in Moneague, St Ann’s Bay, Duncan’s, and a lunch stop at Toyota Jamaica in Ironshore, Montego Bay. The final stretch will take cyclists to Jamwest Beach in Negril.

Approximately 90 riders are expected to participate in the event.

The ride will be fully supported by the The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) and the Jamaica Red Cross, who will provide medical assistance throughout the event.

Sponsors for the event include the Jamaica Tourist Board, Kem Quick/Portland Jerk, Gav Imports Limited, the Jamaica Observer, Toyota Jamaica, Qmall, Jamwest Beach, Azul Beach Resort, Coco La Palm Seaside Resort Hotel, and Father Bull Restaurant.

– Carlysia Ramdeen