CHARITY OPPORTUNITIES

Some e-mails have come my way lately regarding fundraising campaigns. Three projects stood out, because these guys all have strong ties to the sport of triathlon in Ontario, including many volunteer hours in support of athletes and events, and the stories are compelling (in my opinion, at least). Any reader who has been in the sport for a while will recognize the names: Jasper Blake, Steve Merker and Richard Pady. Take a minute to read through the brief info I've posted here, and follow the links if something interests you. I've put the associated event IN CAPS, at the beginning of each section.

While I'm on my soapbox, regardless of whether or not you're interested in these events, consider taking some time this season to give back to the sport. One cheap and easy way is to simply volunteer your time at a race. Without volunteers, races simply wouldn't function. It's a great way to spend a day, and you'll probably come away from the experience with a new appreciation for the sport. I've also heard of experienced athletes guiding a novice triathlete through their first race - not coaching, just attending their first event with them, explaining how things work, and offering support as needed. And most importantly, thank at least one volunteer at every race you do.

In fact, as I write this, I'm thinking it would be a good idea for all Ontario youth and junior athletes to get into the habit of personally thanking one volunteer or official at every race they do. I know many of the athletes already do this, but it would be great if Ontario was known for this. I'll do my part at the races I attend this year too. It's a small but important gesture to the people who are the backbone of the races we enjoy.


For your consideration:


IRONMAN CANADA 2009

From: Jasper Blake

Hello Everyone,

I'm happy and proud to announce the launch of a new campaign called Race4MS. It's been in the thought process for the past two years and after several months of logistical chaos we are ready to go.

If you personally have a desire or know anyone who has a desire to take part in Ironman Canada 2009 this is your chance. We have secured 15 spots for a team to race with the mission of raising funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. The goal this year is to get over 100k and reach 1 million over the next 4-5 years.

Spots are going fast, we have already filled up 4 without actually announcing yet. The fund raising commitment is a good challenge but so is the race itself. There are lots of great perks and of course you get to take part in one of the oldest and most beautiful Ironman events on the planet.

Pass this on to anyone you think might be interested, we are taking team members on a first come first serve basis. Information can be accessed via our website:

www.race4ms.org

If you have any questions you can contact our administration team listed on the contact page.....and of course you can just email me back as well.

Hope you are all well,

Jasper


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JOE'S TRIATHLON, MUSKOKA

From: Steve Merker (PMH Foundation)

Joe’s Team sprint triathlon is one of the most successful grassroots fundraising events for The Princess Margaret, having raised over 1.2 million dollars in just two years. Created by cancer patient Joe Finley, who completed his first triathlon following invasive chemo and radiation treatments, Joe’s Team benefits Translational Cancer Research at The Princess Margaret. This year, the Joe’s Team triathlon takes place on July 11th at the CNIB camp on Lake Joseph in Muskoka.

PS. This event has all the amenities of a typical Ontario triathlon plus more! We offer free training clinics, training opportunities, fundraising support and of course the opportunity to hang out and listen to the Jim Cuddy Band (from Blue Rodeo) on Saturday night following the race.

For more info: Joe's Team



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IM USA LAKE PLACID 2009

From: Richard Pady (Healthy Results)

Race 4 Kids is a fund raising organization to raise money for the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO) in honour of Elizabeth Pady. Elizabeth was two years old when she was diagnosed with leukemia in February 2006. She finished her treatment in May 2008 and due to great advances in treatment in recent years, Elizabeth is healthy and cancer free and doing well. As her parents we know firsthand that the road traveled by children affected by cancer and their families is long, painful and frightening. POGO works to ensure that all of those children as well as their families have access to the best care and services available. That is why we organized Race 4 Kids and chose POGO as the charity….When the children win, we all win!

Race For Kids Website.