Bailey, Lewis to start Flow-Cumi Come Run 2010

FORMER Olympic 100-metre champion, Donovan Bailey, and former world heavyweight champion, Lennox Lewis, have thrown their weight behind the annual 'Flow Cumi Come Run' 10k, 5k run and walk at the Tryall Club in Hanover on Saturday, November 6.

The two renowned international stars will start the fund-raising race at 7 a.m. on the golf course made famous by the Johnny Walker Golf Tournament. Some 250 participants have registered for the event.

Now in its second year, the CUMI (Committee for the Mentally Ill) fund-raising team aims to raise $4 million, which will be used to boost the organisation's trust fund. Last year the event netted $2 million.

"CUMI has a trust fund investment that needs at least $10 million to generate a monthly income to sustain its general operations and secure the delivery of rehabilitation services for our clients and to continue the contribution to community service while benefiting those who have fallen through the safety net," says nurse administrator, Joy Crooks.

She added that the funds needed by CUMI will secure the goals of the rehabilitation programme to maintain mental wellness, life coping skills and empower the clients (the mentally challenged) in readiness to return to the community, equipped with knowledge, understanding of mental-health issues and management skills.

Lewis endorsed event

Lewis, an inductee in boxing's Hall of Fame, endorsed the event.

He said: "The ideals of CUMI showcase the foundation and spirit of our Jamaican culture. One by one we are being accountable for each other, and if we continue to recognise the need to lift each other mentally, financially, emotionally and spiritually, then we really are tapping into the essence of what makes us Jamaicans. CUMI gently reminds us that we need each other."

Lewis also referred to CUMI as a safe haven for everyone, regardless of their mental capacity.

"They (the mentally ill) need to have a place where they can be supported, stimulated, inspired and free to be all they can and want to be.

"Essentially supporting CUMI says to the recipients, 'you matter'," added Lewis.

Bailey, who won a gold medal in the 1996 Olympics, concurred.

"This is my first year supporting the event, and after reading about the incredible things CUMI has done and continue to do, I signed on immediately."

Since 1991, CUMI has served over 1,500 clients, 750 of these have returned to the community as productive individuals in various capacities.

Major sponsors of The Flow-CUMI Come Run include National Continental Foods, Sandals Foundation, Jamaica Money Market Brokers, Tryall Club, The Gleaner, Power 106 FM and TVJ.