‘Race for Survival’ in Matara

Saturday, 2 November 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Text and pictures by P. D. de Silva :

A total of 100 children from schools in Matara joined more than 50,000 children in 67 countries in a marathon relay last week. The global event was organised by Save the Children and the Matara branch of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society coordinated the event in Matara. ‘Race for Survival’ was the largest marathon relay organised for children worldwide. Save the Children in Sri Lanka Country Director William Lynch said that Sri Lanka has recorded the greatest percentage in reduction of malnutrition in the world. The rate of infant mortality was reducing and nutrition was increasing. “All children have the right to good nutrition in order to survive and become active contributors to society. The solution, breastfeeding and improved food preparations are simple, proven and cost effective in reducing the number of children whose lives are blighted by stunting or under nutrition,” he emphasised. “We need urgent political will in order to win this fight for thousands of children across this country, especially those in disadvantaged and rural populations.” Provincial Secretary W K K Athukorala flagged off the event held at the Jayasuriya grounds.