The landscape at WAVZ Negril was transformed into a sea of Black, Gold and Green as two exciting early morning sporting events, SANDZ and SURF, brought athletes and spectators together along Negril’s world-famous Seven Mile Beach.

With the support of Kaizen Swim Club and Negril Wave Runners Swim Club, the inaugural Open Water Swim was successfully staged on the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of Negril.

Alrick Swaby tells us more.

Competitors took on what could easily be described as one of Jamaica’s finest open water swimming courses.

The one-kilometre race featured a 500-metre loop beginning at the WAVZ Complex and extending through the calm, turquoise waters along the coastline to Coco La Palm Hotel before returning to the finish.

Representing Kaizen Swim Club, Zaneta Alvaranga emerged as the overall winner of the Open Water Swim.

Aquatic Sports Association of Jamaica President Lance Rochester secured second place overall, while Ajani Walker of Negril Wave Runners Swim Club completed the podium with a strong third-place finish.

The accompanying 5K Beach Trot saw the Guyonnet family dominate the podium.

Julien Guyonnet claimed first place, followed by his sons Idriss in second and Simba in third, completing an impressive family sweep.

Rochester gave the event his blessings.

With the relocation of the Reggae Marathon to Kingston, Coach of Kaizen, Rory Alvaranga, believes the SANDZ and SURF could fill the void.