A lot more than just bobsledding

Jamaica — the land of low-key rest and relaxation — is aiming to up its active image with a new triathlon and wellness festival.

Its WATA Rose Hall triathlon and wellness fest, which is held along the north coast near Montego Bay, features an ocean swim in the Caribbean, a bike ride through Jamaican countryside, and culminates in a run along a world-famous golf course this Oct. 31.

“It’s opened my eyes up to the sports tourism element of [the area],” says Rayne Russell, the event director of the festival and race. “With the triathlon being one of the fastest-growing sports, it’s fitting to have it down here — [an area that] attracts a lot of active people.”

Other options are available for health-conscious  tourists at the festival, such as a series of workshops, as well as a host of Jamaican holistic healing methods. Visit www.rosehalltriathlon.com for more details.