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photo by Janet Silvera - Wayne Cummings (left), president of the JHTA, happily presents his organisation's award of 'Best Attraction' to the management team members of Kool Runnings Water Park. Receiving the award were (from second left) Donald Nam; general manager; Dr Garfield Munroe, managing director; and Giovanna Allella, marketing manager. The award was presented recently at the JHTA's 47th annual banquet held at the Half Moon hotel, in Montego Bay, St James

Kool Runnings Water Park - JHTA allied member

T he screams of delight emanating from this attraction indicate that the owners 'hit the right spot' when they created a water park with slides, tubes and other rides, packaged with delicious food.

Western Jamaica's coolest water park and Negril's pride attraction was selected as winners of the Allied Member Award in the category of attractions at the recent Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association's (JHTA) 47th anniversary banquet held at the Half Moon hotel, Montego Bay, recently.

"Our winner in this category conceptualised an attraction which is both thrilling and exciting. Reviews on the Internet compare this exciting attraction to the rapids in Palm Beach and other similar parks around the globe," said Donna Haynes while reading the citation.

Dubbed 'The Greatest Chill under the Sun', Kool Runnings has become a signature Jamaican attraction just a little over one year after opening its doors to the public.

"It has proven to attract travellers from all over and has helped to increase revenues in the western region of Jamaica," boasted Giovanna Allella, the attraction's marketing manager.

fun-filled experience

The largest water mark of its kind in Jamaica and the Eastern Caribbean, it provides an exciting and fun-filled experience for all ages, is family-friendly and culturally responsible, catering to locals and visitors alike.

Built on five acres, the park can accommodate up to 2,000 patrons daily. It is the perfect backdrop for parties and other special events, as well as corporate, school and church groups.

"The thrilling water slides, heart- pumping non-aquatic rides, breathtaking grounds, themed restaurants, as well as the 'edutainment' and entertainment provide an unforgettable experience for everyone, from the nature lovers to the thrill-seekers. It forms an eco-friendly environment with its own Jamaican manatee, 'Mikie Manatee', who brings awareness of the plight of the endangered species," said Allella.

"We were therefore thrilled and honoured when they copped the attraction award 2007- 2008 for distinguished service to the hotels," she added.