OCHO RIOS, St Ann: A pair of Usain Bolt's Puma track shoes, autographed by the world's fastest man, is up for auction at the 45th annual convention of the Jamaica Dental Association (JDA), which ends Sunday at the Sunset Jamaica Grande hotel in Ocho Rios.

Proceeds from the silent auction, which also includes several other items, will go towards a clinic established by the JDA on the grounds of the National Children's Home in Hope Pastures, St Andrew.

"The JDA decided it needs to give something back, so five years ago we started the clinic, treating children from seven different homes located in Kingston and St Andrew. These include children who are physically and mentally challenged," said Dr Lorraine Cawley-Gordon, chairperson for the convention.

run from donations

The clinic is run mainly from donations from attendees at the annual conventions and other sources and also from the proceeds of fund-raising events.

The silent auction is one such fund-raisers this year, with all proceeds earmarked for the clinic.

"One interesting item that we're auctioning is a pair of boots from Usain Bolt that was autographed by him; he donated that," Cawley-Gordon said.

Bidding started at a moderate J$40,000 and there was at least one bidder up to late Thursday, meaning that the effort would raise at least that amount.

Organisers are hoping, however, that the shoes will fetch a hefty bid in order to boost the income for the running of the clinic this year.

Earlier this year, at a fund- raising concert for the Bustamante Hospital for Children, organised by reggae superstar Shaggy, a pair of Bolt's autographed shoes reportedly fetched over J$300,000.

- Carl Gilchrist