NEGRIL, JAMAICA - The excitement is building as there are fewer than 24 hours to the start of the first Reggae Marathon. By Friday noon, there were 800 entries in the marathon and half-marathon.

More than 150 runners are from Jamaica, with the rest are visitors from the USA, Canada, England, Germany, Belgium, and Italy.

The American Stroke Association bought over 400 runners and is the largest group in the marathon.

The race begins at 5:45 a.m. Saturday morning to avoid the mid-day heat and there are over 20 doctors assigned to the race for the runners' safety. The forecast is for clear skies and starting temperature of 60 degrees.

There will be live reggae music at six spots on the course.

The winners will be presented with the Rita and Bob Marley Trophies along with a check of $1,000.

Check this Web site on Monday for results.