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$52-million target for 21st annual Sigma Corporate Run

Published:Wednesday | January 9, 2019 | 12:00 AM
Rudolph Brown
From left: Stacey McKenzie, international supermodel and one of the 2019 Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run patrons; Christopher Zacca, president and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica; Yohan Blake, World and Olympic champion, who is a second-time Sigma Run patron; Dr R. Danny Williams, chairman, Sagicor Foundation and singer Tessanne Chin at the Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run 2019 official launch at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

The Sagicor Foundation has announced a fundraising target of $52 million for the 21st staging of the Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run, which is scheduled for Sunday, February 17, beginning at 7:30 a.m. The announcement was made at the launch event held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel.

Beneficiaries of the proceeds are the May Pen Hospital Neonatal Unit, which cares for several critically ill babies per month; the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica, which seeks to create public awareness around the lupus disease, while also providing patient support, counselling, and promoting research around diagnosis and treatment; and the Diabetes Association of Jamaica. The Diabetes Association has responsibility for the development and implementation of a nationwide plan for diabetic treatment, education, and training and is set up to provide diabetes prevention and care to the public.

All proceeds from the race event, through registration, tent rental, and purchase of Sigma-branded items, as well as donations and other fundraising efforts, will go towards securing much-needed help for the beneficiaries.

Corporate Support

Speaking at the launch event, Sagicor Foundation Chairman R. Danny Williams reiterated Sagicor’s support of the health sector and urged the support of the private sector and corporate entities.

“As the Caribbean’s largest road-race event, we not only bring together thousands of fitness enthusiasts, competing corporate entities, families and friends in the spirit of fun and camaraderie, but every person, company, [and] group that supports the Sigma Run is creating a legacy that has a profound impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of our nation’s children,” he said.

President and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica Christopher Zacca, in his remarks, emphasised the significant role each supporter of the Sigma Corporate Run plays in the success of the event. “The relationships forged with our sponsors, patrons, beneficiaries, and our committed volunteers are invaluable and all contribute to the overall amazing experience the brand has been able to provide on race day for our participants.”

Registration is now open, and individuals, companies, and groups can sign up to participate on the company’s Sigma Corporate Run website at www.sagicorsigmarun.com. Registration closes on February 1. In addition to monies earned from registration, persons can contribute to the fundraising efforts by donating via the website; direct deposit to the Sagicor ​Foundation Jamaica Sigma Run 2019 JMD Business Savings Account ­ 5502907486 held at Sagicor Bank; or by purchasing Sigma Run-branded items, which include athletic gear and T-shirts for men and women. Cheques can also be made payable to Sagicor Foundation Jamaica or Sigma Run 2019.