In a bid to raise at least $1.5 million for purchasing track-and-field equipment, Scotiabank has joined forces with the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) to host a fund-raising awards banquet.

The banquet, dubbed 'Golden Cleats Awards', will be held on the evening of January 8 on the lawns of Jamaica House - the stage for the announcement of the country's top male and female athletes of the year.

These details were announced at a press briefing held at the bank's head office, downtown Kingston, yesterday.

Scotiabank said they decided to form this new initiative in response to the plea for financial aid in upgrading training equipment such as hurdles, photo-finish (equipment), display indicators, high jump, lap counters and special computer software for the photo-finish camera.

Expectation high

Howard Aris, president of the JAAA, said: "At this time, the public's expectation is very high in terms of our recent achievements during the last Olympics and World Championships, and we have to maintain a high standard of performance.

"The procurement of the much-needed equipment at this time will play a significant role in contributing positively to the overall development of our athletes."

Anya Schnoor, Scotiabank's senior vice-president, wealth management, and CEO for Scotia DBG Investments Ltd., said her company is building a partnership with the JAAA "to reward our athletes for their achievements over the past year and also to garner the support of corporate Jamaica in offering financial support to our Jamaican athletes."

At the Golden Cleats Awards companies will contribute by purchasing a table for 10 at $7,500.

Pledge cards will also be issued to others desirous of contributing.