Enhanced security measures make downtown Kingston safer for Digicel 5K Run
THE NEWLY declared State of Emergency in sections of the Corporate Area will not affect activities at the Digicel 5K Run for Special Needs, says Running Events Director Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis.
“Registration numbers are strong, and with added security from this state of emergency, participants should feel even safer,” he added.
Francis noted that the race route would not take participants through police checkpoints or cordoned-off areas. As such, it will be business as usual for everyone involved.
“The race route was always secure. We have full support from the police and other security personnel. We have also made provisions to accommodate route changes for persons to get in and out of downtown, so the state of emergency doesn’t really change anything for us,” he said.
With a target of 13,000 participants, up from the 10,000 they had last year, the Digicel Foundation is now in the final stages of planning its signature event, and the registration numbers continue to climb – especially for the obstacle-filled ‘Fun Zone’ category, which has become a hit among the young and young at-heart.
SPECIAL-NEEDS SUPPORT
“More people understand that they, too, can support persons with special needs through their participation in the Digicel 5K. Seven special-needs organisations are set to benefit from the proceeds raised, so it’s full speed ahead with the sign-ups,” said Karlene Dawson, CEO of the Digicel Foundation.
Having raised $41 million from six 5K events so far, the team is looking to make 2018 its biggest year yet.
“We are anticipating a record turnout. It will be an action-packed night. People from all walks of life will be here to throw their full support behind Jamaica’s special-needs community. Best of all, members of our specialneeds community will also be out in full force to run, walk, wheel, and have fun in promoting this great cause,”Dawson concluded.
The Digicel 5K will be held at the Digicel Headquarters, downtown, and will begin at 7 p.m.
Persons are being encouraged to sign up at www.runningeventsja.com by today.