Hello friends and family!
I can't wait for this summer when I'll be competing in the VT 100. What could possibly beat grinding up 100 miles - and your lower extremities - in the sweltering heat of July alongside competitive endurance horses and their riders, while taking in the beauty of the Green Mountains? (Ok, if you know me, being on one of those endurance ponies would be pretty great. Also, I very much dislike sweltering heat, but you know, you can't have your cake and eat it too. Unless there's cake at an aid station. I will eat that cake.)
The point is, I love running. And I love running with other people who love running. I love it so much, I can't wait to do it for 100 miles. And I am incredibly thankful that I have the ability to get out there and get in some miles every day. I know it's something that I take for granted too often.
There are people out there with different abilities, for some of whom just getting out to walk can be a challenge. Some who need a little extra assistance to meet the physical challenge that brings health, fun, and passion to their lives. Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports provides inclusive sports and recreational programs as well as wellness and environmental retreats to people of all ages, with a variety of abilities and disabilities. Programs include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and Nordic in the winter; and sailing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more in the warmer months.
I'm proud to be heading to a race that supports an organization that helps people of all abilities in achieving their sporting goals. Funds raised through VT 100 help to support the purchase of adaptive equipment (like sit-skis and recumbant bikes), training for volunteers, and provides scholarships to reduce the cost of participation.
Please consider donating what you can to help Vermont Adaptive bring sports - all physical, mental, and social elements of them - to people of all abilities.
Thank you!
-Amy
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.