Sigma Run names Blake, Clayton 2024 patrons

REGGAE BOYZ captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake, alongside two-time World Championships bronze medallist Rushell Clayton, will be patrons of the 2024 Sagicor Sigma run.

Come February 18, 2024, the event will see its 26th staging, with both patrons professing their honour about being a part of the initiative, which gives back to Jamaica’s educational and health institutions.

“To be one of the patrons for the 2024 Sigma Run I did not think twice. This event has been a powerful force of good for Jamaica. It reminds me of the epic quote ‘We rise by lifting others’. So let’s lace up and join others on February 18 to support the recipients,” said Blake.

“I encourage everyone to get involved in the event, come participate and donate. Many are depending on all of us to give what we can as it is an opportunity for our people to offer a helping hand to those in need,” Clayton said.

“The spirit of Sigma has always been about unity, community and shared commitment to creating positive changes in our country. It is about bringing people together, breaking barriers, creating opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging,” she added.

After raising $92 million last year with the help of patrons, former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell and five-time 100m world champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Blake and Clayton are now tasked to help the Sigma Run meet their new target of $100 million.

The proceeds will go towards three beneficiaries, namely: the National Chest Hospital, the Danny Williams School of the Deaf and the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital.

While they are both eager to help all three, Clayton said one beneficiary is particularly dear to her heart.

“One holds a special place in my heart. I was born in the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital in 1992. It was pretty emotional because my mom went into a coma for two weeks after I was born and it was the incredible staff there that helped her to get healthy and for me to be here representing (Jamaica) today. So I’m pretty excited, inspired and motivated to use my platform and my image to promote this year’s even,” the 32-year-old said.

The health message that comes with this event also speaks volume to Clayton as a professional athlete.

“Importantly, as an elite athlete, I also wholeheartedly welcome the message and focus of encouraging healthy lifestyles among the participants,” Clayton said.

The Sagicor Sigma Run is the largest charity racing event in Jamaica, but Sagicor does not stop there, contributing to other sports like football and for this Blake said he’s grateful, even though he may not be physically running.

“I may be swift in reaching for the ball on the soccer pitch but I’ll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines on February 18. Special thanks to Sagicor for inviting me to be a part of this life-changing event and also to their generous donation to the Andre Blake Foundation,” he said.