The sixth MBJ Airports Foundation Charity 5K Run/Walk brought thousands of participants to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica, on September 6, 2026. The event mobilised more than 110 sponsors and partners around a fundraising initiative supporting educational opportunities for Jamaican students.
Thousands take part in the sixth charity race
The MBJ Airports Foundation held the sixth edition of its Charity 5K Run/Walk at Sangster International Airport under the theme “Supporting Academic Dreams”. Competitive runners, corporate teams, families and walkers gathered for an event combining physical activity with fundraising for education.
The September 6 race attracted thousands of participants, although MBJ Airports Limited did not disclose a precise attendance figure in its September 18 media release.
Evans Tetteh, 18, retained the men’s title in 16 minutes and 19 seconds, while Dandie Williams won the women’s race in 21 minutes. Both athletes represented Pacers Running Club. Rainforest Seafood fielded the largest corporate team, with 109 participants, followed by Hyatt Resorts with 78.
Airport partners maintain support despite hurricane challenges
The 2026 MBJ Charity Run/Walk received backing from more than 110 sponsors and partners. The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), the event’s title sponsor, provided financial and in-kind support, alongside companies including ZDA Construction, Grand Palladium, Ascend, Afresh and Harbour City Shopping Mall.
Shane Munroe, Chief Executive Officer of MBJ Airports Limited, emphasised the operator’s broader commitment to the communities surrounding Sangster International Airport.
“It’s not just about the business that we are operating but MBJ’s broader commitment to the communities and people that must thrive alongside the airport,” Munroe said.
According to Munroe, the continued participation of sponsors was particularly significant following Hurricane Melissa. Some supporting companies were operating hotels that had not reopened since the hurricane, raising initial concerns about their ability to participate.
Richard Gibbs, Senior Director, Commercial Development and Planning at the Airports Authority of Jamaica, also highlighted the importance of connecting the airport with its surrounding communities.
“Investment in education and community development is an investment in Jamaica’s future,” Gibbs said.
(foreground), MBJ Airports Limited’s CEO
gives the thumbs up
Richard Vernon of Montego Bay is all
smiles
CEO, Airports Authority of
Jamaica takes a selfie as he
crossed the finish line
Education support continues beyond race day
The MBJ Charity Run/Walk has generated more than $71 million in educational grants since its inception, directly benefiting over 3,300 students. Additional assistance has reached educational institutions and communities, according to the Foundation.
The initiative raised $30 million in 2025, with grants subsequently distributed to students and educational institutions. MBJ has not yet announced the amount collected during the September 2026 edition.
As LATITUDE-15 previously reported , the programme extends beyond the annual race through a grant framework targeting students and community organisations.
Applications for the latest Education Grant Award remain open until September 30, 2026, through MBJ’s online platform.
For MBJ Airports Foundation, the next phase will focus on translating the event’s fundraising efforts into continued educational assistance across Jamaica.
When did the 2026 MBJ Charity Run/Walk take place?
The sixth edition was held on September 6, 2026, at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
How much has the MBJ Charity Run/Walk raised for education?
According to MBJ Airports Foundation, the initiative has generated more than $71 million in educational grants since its inception, directly supporting over 3,300 students. The amount collected in 2026 has not yet been disclosed.
When is the deadline for education grant applications?
Applications for the MBJ Education Grant Award close on September 30, 2026. Students and community organisations can apply through the official MBJ platform.
