where to run
The joys of running in our home city of Kingston revolve around three retreats — one that is sure to suit your fancy.
The Dam, Mona Heights
The Mona Reservoir or ‘the Dam’ is a packed dirt trail around one of Kingston’s water reservoirs and is the home ground of the Jamdammers. The wide-open expanse, light breezes and views of the regal Blue Mountains make it a natural and popular meeting spot for runners.
A small annual fee must be paid to the National Water Commission for a ‘Dam Pass’ to get access (mornings and evenings) to the grounds through security posts.
Distances measured using a wheel by a very exacting Englishman named Bob Smith, are:
- Small Lap (a loop on top) = 2607 metres or 1.615 miles
- Large Lap (the famous ‘Big C’) = 3668 metres or 2.272 miles
Call the National Water Commission at 929-3540 for more information.
Constant Spring Golf Club, Manor Park
Runners rule the grass before 7:00am on this golf course split into two sections with refreshing vistas of the Norbrook hills. The Golf Course is the largest green space left in the city of Kingston and should be protected as such. Runners must be a Basic Golf Club member or be a guest of a member (refer to Club rules about guests). Runners are permitted along the edge of fairways and cart paths and not allowed on the greens and sand traps. Golfers teeing off/driving have ‘right of way’ and we have co-existed with mutual tolerance.
For the uninitiated, a pleasant run on grass for the ‘Regulars’ can be a harrowing experience in the early morning darkness for those unfamiliar with its nuances. On the lower section of the Golf Course, a ‘Reverse’ is 2.1 miles. It has also been marked for 400m 800m and 1200m repeats.
The upper course — a hilly and lush cross-country adventure — is 2.59 miles along the loop most traveled by the Regulars. All runners must abide by Club rules. If you would like to make the Golf Course your home ground, ask a fellow Jamdammer who is a member to invite you for a guided tour.
Contact the Golf Club at 755-2066
UWI Campus & Hospital grounds, Mona Campus
The University grounds can be a runner’s paradise with loops and circles on paved roads, plus benefits of good lighting and several security posts for early morning runners. It is picturesque with views of the Blue Mountain range illuminated by the rising sun, old aqueducts and interesting buildings.
There are several loops and combination of loops runners can take. The foundation routes starting from the Assembly Hall & Administration parking area are:
For 100m to 1,200m repeats and any combination in-between, use the lovely stretch of straight road by the stables.
Early morning access to the Campus is through the Post Office Gate. There is no charge to use the grounds, but please observe the one-way road system when driving and watch out for tire ‘whatyoumacallits’ when running. It is best to run here in the early morning (5:00am), as the Campus gets quite busy with human/road traffic after 7:00am.
other popular areas for walkers and beginning runners...
Emancipation Park, New Kingston
Located in the center of the business and hotel hub of New Kingston, the Park is heavily utilized by walkers. With excellent lighting, water fountains, bathrooms and security it is well managed and maintained as a showcase of the city. Each lap is 500m. Open to the public at no charge from 4:30am to 11:00pm (weekdays) and 12 midnight (weekends).
Police Officers Club, Hope Road
A dirt & grass trail with a small circumference of approximately 300m around a cricket pitch. Open to the public at no charge.
Shortwood Field, Shortwood Road & Olivier Road
A dirt trail of approximately 350m around a football pitch. Popular with walkers and joggers from the surrounding neighborhoods. Open to the public at no charge.
Training runs
Coming soon...
Hill repeats
If you live in Kingston, you gotta love hills! Jamdammers use Norbrook Drive starting at Waterworks for 800m and 1200m repeats. For 1-mile, Russell Heights gives a wicked thrill from approximately Shields & Shields entrance to the SLOW sign past the Cherry Gardens Great House!
Sand Runs
Palisados and Cable Hut will make you gasp! Jamdammers Alan Beckford and Peter Young can’t seem to get enough. Check them for some extreme excitement.
