Albertans will be able to support Special Olympic Alberta athletes virtually starting on July 5.
The organization is hosting its second annual virtual Summer Series with the Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run event, running from July 5 to September 6.
This series-style event is comprised of three legs – biking, walk, and running – that can be conquered as an individual or as part of a team.
“For the past 16 months, Special Olympics Alberta athletes have been unable to gather together, train in their sports, or compete at events,” said Matt Burton, LETR Southwest Region Chair. “The Virtual Summer Series is an opportunity for the athletes to stay connected with law-enforcement officers, friends and family, while being physically active, over the summer months.”
Participants can register for one, two or three legs of the event, and can set individual distance goals based on ability levels.
Each leg of the series is only $15 to register, and Special Olympics Alberta athletes can register for free. Anyone that completes all three legs will receive a 2021 Virtual Summer Series medal.
Participants are encouraged to raise pledges while they are participating in any of the legs of the event, with incentives for fundraising.
The overall fundraising goal has been set at $50,000, which will help support Special Olympics Alberta, as they plan to return to in-person programming later this year.
“With a return to programming happening in the near future, this virtual fundraising event will help to benefit the athletes as they return to the events they love and cherish,” said Burton.
Last year in Alberta, $320,000 was raised across the province, benefiting local programs.
To find out more info on the race, check out, www1.specialolympics.ab.ca/albertatorchrun/virtual-summer-series/