Sagicor Sigma Run looks to raise $52m

Christopher Zacca, president and chief executive officer of Sagicor Group Jamaica, has predicted a massive turnout for this year's staging of the Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run as it seeks to raise $52 million for three local organisations.

The event, set for February 17, will be seeking funds this year for the May Pen Hospital Neonatal Unit, the Diabetes Association of Jamaica and Lupus Foundation of Jamaica. Speaking during yesterday's 21st launch of the event at the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, Zacca said that his company was delighted with the support it has received over the years and they are looking forward to a very successful staging this year.

"Fifty million dollars was a tremendous achievement last year because it was way above our target. This year we have a higher target in mind, but $52m is our real bottom line ... ," said Zacca.

"It just keeps getting bigger and better each year. It is unbelievable how the event has a life of its own, the hundreds and thousands of lives we have touched," he said.

"The communities that we serve have jumped in with us because we pay for all of the administration. None of the contributions are used to pay our administration costs. Everything flows to the beneficiaries and so I expect the biggest and best (Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run) this year," Zacca said.

He added that his organisation is aiming to host more than 30,000 participants, well above last year's 26,000.

Special appeal

"This year, I am making a special appeal because the needs are even greater, and we would like Corporate Jamaica to double up," he said. This year's patrons of the event are 2011 World 100 metres champion Yohan Blake and international fashion model and runway coach Stacey McKenzie. Blake said that he was very delighted to be on board to support the event.

"It's a great feeling to be associated with this event because it is my second time, and Sagicor has been doing some great work. I am happy to be on board to support them," said Blake.

He added: "The Neonatal Unit at the May Pen Hospital is a very important institution because children are the future."