FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Mayor of Falmouth Councillor Colin Gager has commended organisers of the Heroes In Act!on Run/Walk, JN Foundation, for selecting the Falmouth Infirmary in Trelawny as this year’s beneficiary of the proceeds from the event.

“We thank the JN Foundation for considering the Trelawny Infirmary and I pledge to do everything in my power to make the Run/Walk a success,” he said, as he addressed the recent press launch at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston. The event is scheduled for October 15 in Trelawny and is being staged in collaboration with the Usain Bolt Foundation.

The mayor argued that the Trelawny Infirmary was one of the most efficiently run institutions in the island.

“As mayor of Falmouth, it is my intention to build on the gains made at the infirmary, such as providing an ambulance and upgrading the facility to become a modern home for seniors,” he added.

Onyka Barrett-Scott, partnership & development manager, JN Foundation, said that the institution was selected as a beneficiary based on the need to bolster support, as well as the fact that it falls in line with this year’s theme, ‘Run for Our Heroes’.

“The demand for the services of the infirmary is extremely high,” she said, noting that the institution currently houses approximately 62 residents.

“The JN Foundation hopes to address some of the urgent needs of the institution from the proceeds of the run/walk,” she said, adding, “I encourage everyone to support this year’s Run /Walk.”

Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, who commended the JN Foundation’s initiative, pointed out that the Ministry of Health’s Jamaica Moves Campaign has endorsed the event.

“Many Jamaicans suffer from a lifestyle disease and we at the Ministry of Health are pushing a more preventive approach. Therefore, “Jamaica Moves,” is an initiative which seeks to encourage more Jamaicans to exercise,” he said.

This year’s event will have participants engaged in either a 4K Fun Run or a 10 K Run. The 4K Fun Run, which is geared towards the family, is designed for both walkers and runners, and will showcase four fun obstacles along the route that small children can also enjoy. Experienced runners can also enjoy the 4K Fun Run challenge.

The 10K Run, however, is targeting more experienced runners and is a great pre-event for runners interested in participating in marathon races set for later this year. Speed walkers may opt to participate in the 10K Run.

The event will culminate in a post-run celebration featuring entertainment with Ding Dong and Kevin Downswell, as well as an awards ceremony.

Jamaica National said that the third staging of the run/walk is symbolic of the group’s continued commitment to rural development.