Hello friends and family!
This summer I’ll be returning to run 100 miles as part of the Vermont 100. Growing up, I was loosely aware of this race and always curious about its absurdity. In 2022 I was drawn back to the event as it fell just after what would have been my Dad’s 75th birthday and it felt like a great way to commemorate that for myself as it was a special race to him. I was graciously given the opportunity to run it in support of the race’s charity partner, Vermont Adaptive. This spectacular organization has been active in New England for over 30 years, helping to empower people of all abilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming.
Throughout my run in 2022, I found myself in awe of how lucky I was to be doing what I was doing. I once listened to an interview with Karl Meltzer and his line “who gets to do this?” kept coming to mind. Having the physical ability, and also the support network in place to dedicate the time to both the event and the training is a gift I value so greatly. Vermont Adaptive plays a vital role in giving people the opportunity to get outside and enjoy activity in nature, something I’ve been so blessed to be able to do throughout my life.
In 2022 I was passionate about the challenge of doing this run for the first time and and as soon as I finished I knew there would be more 100 mile races in my future. Less expected and far more important was the passion that this experience kindled for the organization that the Vermont 100 supports. Over the course of the last year, I have been very fortunate to spend time with the incredible team at Vermont Adaptive. I got to experience the organization's impact first-hand on runs with visually impaired athletes, through participation in their adaptive ski program at Pico Mountain, and by meeting some of their countless amazing volunteers. These experiences were eye-opening, from the humorous sight of volunteers juggling a room full of rambunctious guide dogs, to hearing a visually impaired runner passionately tell the story of his return to skis, to the amazing moment of seeing a young, visually impaired skier find comfort, confidence and joy for the first time on snow. Through all of this, I found myself so excited to support this cause again.
In 2023 the race was cancelled due to catastrophic flooding in Vermont so while I was not able to race, Vermont Adaptive carried on providing Adaptive Athletes with over 5000 opportunities to get out and move their bodies in nature. As such, last year's fundraising was as crucial as ever for the organization. In 2024 I'll be back, with the same goals as last year, but even more passion for this race, and this amazing cause. Any amount you can give to these athletes helps, and is truly appreciated by both me and this spectacular organization. Last year we raised over $20,000 thanks to your generosity. Please help me support this cause however you can. I greatly look forward to each of those 100 miles in Vermont in July, and I know that my feelings of gratitude for all of your support will be a source of energy in the challenging moments.
MORE INFO:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org.