KINGSTON:

Minister of Culture, Gender Affairs, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange has lauded the work being done by the Guardian Group through its Keep It Alive 5K Night Runs, which takes place in Kingston and Montego Bay on November 5 and 12, respectively.

"I am very impressed with what you've been able to achieve with these races. Since 2014, you've raised 22 million dollars to assist health care in our country, particularly hospitals. I commend you for providing this opportunity for our people to participate in a fulfilling, enjoyable and healthy event," said Grange at yesterday's launch at Guardian Life's headquarters in New Kingston.

According to the minister, the races fit into the ministry's programme to increase the number of Jamaicans participating in sports as part of efforts to encourage a culture of physical fitness.

"We want to see more people, at every age, playing sports. The more active we are, the healthier we will be," the minister added.

According to Grange, the ministry and Guardian Group have been "working well together in the implementation of the Jamaica Athletes' Insurance Plan".

More than 1,200 of the country's athletes across various disciplines are covered under the plan.