World Athletics gives J$16 Million to support hurricane-affected athletes

World Athletics will donate US$100,000 (approximately J$16 million) to the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) to assist members of the track and field community affected by Hurricane Melissa.

President of World Athletics, Lord Sebastian Coe, made the announcement during a media briefing at the JAAA’s office in Kingston on Wednesday.

World Athletics is the international governing body for track and field.

Ian Forbes, first vice president of the JAAA, said the organisation will meet with athletics stakeholders such as athletes and coaches to determine how the money will be allocated.

Coe also revealed that following a meeting with Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby on Tuesday, they agreed to stage a 5K charity run in April, for which he will serve as patron. Proceeds from the event will go toward hurricane relief efforts.

During his visit, Coe, now in his 10th year as World Athletics president, also met with Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, and several stakeholder groups. He additionally visited Jamaica College and Excelsior High School in Kingston.

Coe is scheduled to depart the island later on Wednesday.

- Robert Bailey

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