According to Alfred 'Frano' Francis, race director for Jamdammers Running Club, organisers of the Grand Prix: "The NHF was approached for funding when last year's sponsors advised that they were unable to continue their financial support of the event and we are very happy that NHF came on board to save the event."

The Holland Bamboo 6K is one of five road races in the Grand Prix Series leading up to the signature Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K to be held in Negril in December. Last year, the Holland Bamboo 6K was the largest of the Grand Prix Series with more than 800 participants.

"There has been an overwhelming request from participants who wish to walk the route and we have expanded the event to now include walkers," Francis advised.

Major focus

Rosemarie Lee, public relations manager at the NHF, said: "Promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyle is a major focus of the NHF and, this year in particular, we are supporting physical activity events in various neighbour-hoods across the island."

This, she advised, is in keeping with the theme 'Active Neighbourhood Builds Health' which the NHF adopted in April during the first Physical Activity Week.

"The NHF is happy to rescue the Holland Bamboo 6K. It is a well-organised event and our sponsorship ensures that it continues this year and provides another avenue to get Jamaicans in St Elizabeth and environs moving."

Participants in this race run through the beautiful bamboo grove, which covers the roadway from Lacovia to New Holland Football Field in St Elizabeth. The organisers expect this year's event to be even bigger than last year, and are encouraging people interested in this road race to register early. Application forms are available from the NHF, the Art Printery, Burger King and the JAAA office.