The Jamaican Government will salute the Rio Olympic delegation with a three-day program of celebratory activities designed to honour their achievements and demonstrate national pride in their performances. The events will be held over the Heroes Weekend, October 14-16.
In a programme organised by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Rio athletes will be the guests of honour at a Sports Gala and Awards Ceremony to be held at the National Indoor Sports Centre on Saturday, October 15. At this event the Government will make a special presentation of cash awards to each member of the delegation, including coaches and other officials.
According to Minister Grange, the Gala will include a specially produced showcase featuring some of Jamaica’s internationally renowned popular artists, including Omi, Chronixx, Christopher Martin, Kevin Downswell and Spice. Also sharing the spot light will be the Wolmers Dance Troupe, the National Youth Chorale and specially choreographed dances by L’Antoinette Stines.
“On Friday, October 14, Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness will host a Reception at Jamaica House. On Sunday, October 16 the Jamaica National Building Society hosts the JN5K Run/Walk in the streets of Falmouth, a charity event in collaboration with the Usain Bolt Foundation in which some of the Olympic athletes will participate,” Minister Grange said.
She added that “a gala will also be held for the Rio delegation in western Jamaica on Sunday evening hosted at the Melia Braco Village in Trelawny. This will afford citizens of Western Jamaica the opportunity to participate in the Salute to the Rio Sports Ambassadors. The evening will also feature a live entertainment package.” she explained.
The planning and execution of the celebrations are the responsibility of a multi-disciplinary planning committee chaired by the Minister. Further details of the Government’s plans to honour the Olympic athletes will be announced at a Press Conference to be hosted by the Ministry shortlty.
Minister Grange lauded the Rio Salute sponsors including Campari/J.Wray & Nephew, Jamaica National Building Society, WYSINCO, Supreme Ventures Ltd., Shipping Association of Jamaica, Jamaica Urban Transit Company, Sandals Resorts International, Stewart’s Automotive Group and Melia Braco Village while urging others to come on board.
The event will be broadcast live on television and streamed via the internet.
