Selflessness Through Sport: Racing For Charity
- By Holly Bennett
- Published Jun 13, 2012
A major gateway to the sport of triathlon, charity-racing programs pull thousands of people of all athletic backgrounds off the couch and onto the start line. The experience can be life-changing, not only for those that benefit from the fundraising efforts, but also for the athletes involved, by creating a sense of purpose greater than one’s own fitness and accomplishment. Here we profile eight such programs, and also share the personal efforts of an individual with substantial ties to the sport.
Team Livestrong
In tandem with Lance Armstrong’s widely publicized return to triathlon, Team Livestrong aims to make a major statement in the multisport world starting in 2012. In addition to its well-established ride and run events, Livestrong’s Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) recently launched a new partnership with the World Triathlon Corporation with the goal of raising more than $1 million for people affected by cancer. The Lance factor is sure to have a swift and substantial impact: Within three weeks of the program’s announcement, more than 170 athletes had registered for Team Livestrong triathlon events.
The Give & Get:
- Commitment to fundraise for the LAF (minimum requirement range: $600–$1400 per event; athletes already race-registered may join Team Livestrong with no minimum commitment, however a small milestone exists in order to earn the signature black and yellow race kit)
- Guaranteed entry (complimentary or paid, depending on race) to a variety of triathlon events including Ironman 70.3 Texas, Ironman 70.3 Florida and Ironman France
- Livestrong tri top, hat and race belt
- Personalized fundraising website and a library of fundraising tools (including “Six Easy Steps to Raising $1000” and “How to Start a Social Media Campaign”)
- One-on-one Livestrong staff support
FILED UNDER: Features