Photos and Words by Varun Baker—
Jamaica By Bike is an annual event that takes participants on a scenic, 250-km (156-mile) bicycle ride across the island, from the capital city of Kingston to the beautiful white sand beaches of Negril. The challenge, first pioneered by road cyclists in 1992, has now become a social event in Jamaica that marks the start of National Heroes weekend and raises money for worthy charities.
This year, 106 registered cyclists set out at 4:30am to catch sunrise while biking along the banks of the Rio Cobre river. The ride then continues north over the lush hills towards Ocho Rios. Following the coastline to a lunch break in Montego Bay, it’s just another 40 miles to Negril.
Through its membership and events, the Jamaica by Bike Organization aims to have fun while making a difference in the lives of others. The main goal of this year’s event was to contribute towards purchasing two fibreoptic bronchoscopes for the University Hospital of the West Indies’ Intensive Care Units.
Cyclists head towards Spanish Town from Kingston in the early hours of the morning.
The gradual climb over Mount Rosser is the most challenging part of the ride.
The bank of Rio Cobre along the Bog Walk Gorge
Flat Bridge. One of Jamaica’s oldest and most treacherous river crossings, Flat Bridge was built by slaves more than 300 years ago. Today, the bridge, as well as the famed Pum Pum Rock nearby, is among the most recognizable and well-known landmarks on the island. Those who haven’t even been to yard may even recognize it from the scene where Horsemouth crosses it in the movie, Rockers.
The annual event raises funds for charities.
After Flat Bridge, there is a rest and refueling stop in Ewarton
Safety is enforced with ride management and accompanying police outriders
Jamaica by Bike promotes teamwork, healthy lifestyles, fitness, and family bonding.
The annual ride to Negril marks the start of National Heroes Weekend in Jamaica each year.
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