Codemasters is embarking on a quest to re-populate the UK with Jasons, in what can only be filed in the "so weird it must be true" category.
The firm, whose game Rise of the Argonauts launched this month, is looking to knock Jack, Thomas, Oliver and Joshua from the top of the UK’s favourite boys' names by encouraging parents to name their sons after the game’s hero.
[quote]
The name ‘Jason’ is from Greek origin, meaning “healer”. It has been considered an English name since the 17th Century, yet – whilst it consistently ranks as one of the US’s most popular names – its popularity has faded in the UK over recent years, dropping down out of the top 50.
It’s now time to bring it back: Codemasters’ goal is to elevate Jason’s ranking in the end-of-year boys names, issued in December 2009.[/quote]
Over the coming weeks, Codemasters will be running editorial at bringbackjason.com in an effort to rejuvenate the popularity of the name. The blog will look at naming and social trends as well as seeking to determine why Jason is no longer a common name.
Any parent who names their new son “Jason” will be eligible to win a year’s supply of the firm’s games on their chosen platform. All they have to do is fax, post or email a copy of the birth certificate for the opportunity to enter the prize draw.
“These days, babies names are influenced by celebrities – and there aren’t that many famous Jasons any more,” says Richard Eddy, Director of Communications, Codemasters. “We hope our Rise of the Argonauts hero can act as a ‘virtual’ star, encouraging new parents to rejuvenate this one-great English name. Jasons, friends of Jasons, and anyone interested in onomastics should keep an eye on the blog over the coming weeks, as we document our quest to re-populate the nation with Jasons.”
