KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club officially unveiled its 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride on Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel. The event brought together local and international cycling enthusiasts for a meet and greet ahead of the weekend’s island-wide ride. The main event, scheduled for Saturday, will see cyclists traverse from the Pegasus Hotel to Jamwest Beach in Negril, showcasing Jamaica’s potential as a premier cycling and tourism destination.
Coach Carlton Simmonds, President of the Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club, emphasized that the launch was more than a mere introduction; it was a platform for cyclists to unite and celebrate their shared passion. ‘Cycling is my life,’ Simmonds told Observer Online, highlighting the sport’s health benefits and eco-friendly nature.
During the launch, the club honored John Lynch, Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board, with an award for his steadfast support in advancing cycling across the country and promoting Jamaica as a cycling hotspot. Dominic Beaubrun, Managing Director of the Jamaica Observer Media Group, expressed enthusiasm about cycling’s potential to become a cornerstone of Jamaica’s tourism industry. ‘Cycling can be developed locally to host such events,’ Beaubrun noted. ‘It benefits both locals and international participants, offering a unique perspective on Jamaica’s stunning landscapes.’
Beaubrun also revealed that the event holds international significance, as the World Cycling Federation has included it in its points accumulation system. ‘Jamaica is one of the few places in the Caribbean and the western hemisphere where cyclists can earn points for major international events,’ he explained.
Marion Ebanks, representing the Jamaica Tourist Board, praised the event for its ability to merge community, sport, and Jamaica’s natural beauty. The 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride will commence at 4:00 am on Saturday, October 19, from the Pegasus Hotel. Cyclists will make rest stops in Moneague, St Ann’s Bay, Duncan’s, and Toyota Jamaica in Ironshore, Montego Bay, before concluding at Jamwest Beach in Negril.
Approximately 90 riders are expected to participate, with support from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) and the Jamaica Red Cross, ensuring safety and medical assistance throughout the event. Key sponsors 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.