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Registration open for virtual Special Olympics Alberta fundraiser

Jun 24, 2021 | 12:55 PM

This summer, you can cycle, walk and/or run in support of Special Olympics Alberta.

The Virtual Summer Series makes its return on July 5, with registration now open. It’s an initiative spearheaded by the Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Alberta and will be on-going until September 6. The series-style event is comprised of three legs: biking, walking and running. These can be tackled either individually or as part of a team.

Participants can register for one, two or three legs of the event and can set individual goals based on their ability levels.

The biking leg will take place from July 5 to July 26, the walking portion from July 26 to August 16, and the running segment from August 16 to September 6.

LETR Southwest Region chair, Matt Burton, said that “for the past 16 months, Special Olympics Alberta athletes have been unable to gather together, train in their sports, or compete at events.”

“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.”

Each leg of the series is $15 to sign up for, and Special Olympics Alberta athletes can register for free. Anyone that completes all three legs will get a 2021 Virtual Summer Series medal.

Not only does the event act as a way for people to get moving, it also serves as a fundraiser. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges while they are taking part in any of the legs.

This year, the overall fundraising goal is $50,000, which will go toward supporting Special Olympics Alberta, as athletes plan to return to in-person programming later this year.

Burton said that, “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.”

“Please register for the Virtual Summer Series, or donate to a family member, friend or colleague who is participating in this event.”

Anyone looking to register or find out more about the Virtual Summer Series can visit Special Olympics Alberta’s website here.

(Lethbridge News Now)