Blue Run 5K returns in support of prostate cancer awareness

FOLLOWING a successful 2025 staging that raised $4-million in support of prostate health, Running Events Jamaica is preparing to stage the fourth edition of the Blue Run 5K on September 20, 2026, as part of the continued mission to raise awareness about prostate cancer.

The 2026 Blue Run, powered by title sponsor Guardian Life, was officially launched on Wednesday, August 19, ahead of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Jamaica Cancer Society. Funds will be used to support initiatives focused on raising awareness about prostate cancer, encouraging men to prioritise their prostate health, and promoting early screening and detection.

For Running Events Jamaica, the Blue Run represents more than a race, serving as a platform to encourage conversations around a health issue that continues to affect Jamaican men and their families.

“The Blue Run has grown into an important platform for bringing people together around a cause that directly impacts the health and wellbeing of Jamaican men,” said Alfred Francis, race director at Running Events Jamaica. “As we enter our fourth year, we are proud to continue using the power of running and community to encourage greater awareness, open conversations about prostate health, and remind men that early action can make a meaningful difference. We look forward to another strong staging and to seeing families, friends and runners come out in support of this important cause.”

The impact of last year’s event was also highlighted at the launch with the official handover of the 2025 proceeds to the Urology Department of the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI). The funds were accepted by Dr Belinda Morrison-Blidgen, consultant urologist at the University Hospital of the West Indies, who emphasised the importance of early intervention and continued public education around prostate cancer.

“Prostate cancer remains a significant health concern for Jamaican men, and one of the most important messages we can reinforce is that men should not wait until they have symptoms before speaking with their doctor. Awareness, appropriate screening and early detection can play an important role in improving outcomes. The support from the Blue Run helps us to keep that message at the forefront while demonstrating the impact that community-driven initiatives can have on men’s health. We are grateful to the organisers, sponsors and participants whose efforts are helping to strengthen prostate health advocacy and remind men that taking care of their health should not be delayed,” said Morrison-Blidgen.

The 2026 Blue Run will again feature its signature 5K route through New Kingston, along with the family-focused elements that have become a feature of the event.

Organisers are encouraging men and their families to use Prostate Cancer Awareness Month as an opportunity to become more informed about prostate health and to have conversations with their healthcare providers about screening and early detection.

As title sponsor, Guardian Life is also reaffirming its commitment to the initiative and to promoting healthier communities. “We believe supporting better health goes beyond providing insurance coverage. It also means encouraging people to take proactive steps to protect their well-being,” said Oneil Clarke, vice-president, life, health and pensions sales, Guardian Life Limited.

“Through our continued partnership with the Blue Run, we want to encourage more men to prioritise their prostate health, get screened and have conversations that can save lives. We are proud to support the event once again and help keep prostate cancer awareness firmly in focus,” he said.

Participants for the 2026 Blue Run 5K can register at
www.runningeventsja.com.