Gordon-Clarke commits to Sigma Run despite broken leg

A broken leg in a medical cast could not stop Tameika Gordon-Clarke from walking for a cause at the Sagicor Sigma Run on Sunday.

The annual event raised over J$150 million for five schools damaged by Hurricane Melissa in western Jamaica and Gordon-Clarke did not just want to be a contributor, but a participant despite her medical challenge.

"In spite of everything you have people out there who are really in need and we are doing it for a worthy cause," she told STAR Sports at the finish line.

Although her first time competing at the event saw her with a major injury to her foot, out of the over 8,000 walkers who participated she finished ahead of nearly 40 participants.

"You have people still coming in so I still feel like a winner," she said laughing. "It was a good experience because I usually run with my company -that is, Child Protection and Family Services Agency. So it was the norm for me, it was easy.

"(This time) I walked with my daughter's business, Natures X. She's just starting her business so I decided to just come out."

She finished the event in one hour, 42 minutes and 52 seconds.

Gordon-Clarke, who broke her leg almost four weeks ago, said she disobeyed her doctor's order, but the cause was worth it.

"I was at work and a little minor incident occurred which caused me to slip and hit my foot," she said. "I should be going to the doctor on the 17th (of February). They said stay off the leg but, you know I had to come to Sigma."

Gordon-Clarke, who has competed at other charitable walk/run events, said though this was her first Sigma, she looks forward to coming back with a fully healed leg to compete.

"It was fun, knowing that you are walking for a cause. It was great," she said.

As for people who are thinking of joining the movement to attend other charitable walk/runs, Gordon Clarke leaves this encouragement.

"No matter how small, give it and give it with a willing heart."