I'm going to Vermont in July to again tackle the Vermont 100 mile run. The VT100 is one of the oldest 100 mile races and like the granddaddy of them all, the Western States 100, has its origins in an endurance horse ride. Way back in 1990 it is where I ran my 100-mile PR. These days it's hard for me just to stay ahead of the cut-off times, but I hope to chalk up another finish.

The VT100 is a fund-raiser for Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports (VASS), which provides programs to people of all ages with a variety of challenges in life. They provide instruction, fun programs and specialized equipment year-round, including for Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter; and sailing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, and other sports in warmer months. I have met some of the people who benefit from these programs and some of the volunteers who work with them, and have contributed to their support in the past. You can see more information about VASS below or at http://www.vermontadaptive.org/aboutus.php

This year I have decided to ask friends to support me by contributing to VASS on my personal fund-raising page at 'PledgeReg' http://www.PledgeReg.com/90549. I know VASS is an excellent organization and it's a great cause. And for me it would add an extra incentive to push hard at the race and make it to the finish line if I know there are people who have pledged their support!

Ian
 

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 nearly 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.

The Vermont 100 Endurance Race is in its 28th year and was started by the same woman, Laura Farrell, who founded Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports. The VT 100 is put on every year by a committee of 15 dedicated volunteers who work year round, 250 volunteers who come out for race weekend, more than 30 private land owners and many donors of funds, products or services. Monies raised from the event support the year-round programs offered by Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports.

The course is a "shamrock" loop, consisting of 70% dirt or jeep roads with the rest on woods trails with just a couple miles of pavement. The course both climbs and descends 14,000 – 15,000 feet. Participants have 30 hours to complete the race and many strive to finish in less than 24 hours. In 2008 we added a 100 K course that uses almost all of the same trail, just cutting out the first of the shamrocks leaves.

All 100 Mile participants must have completed a 50 mile race in 12 hours or less to qualify and everyone is required to volunteer for 8 hours at a running event or trail work to enter.

Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is the largest year-round disabled sports non-profit organization in Vermont offering the most diverse program opportunities and unique, specialized equipment. Vermont Adaptive promotes independence and furthers equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational opportunities including alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports; kayaking, canoeing, sailing, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, tennis, horseback riding, wellness and environmental programming and more. We serve clients of all abilities with physical, cognitive and emotional/behavioral disabilities from all over the world in three locations in Vermont during the winter – Killington Resort and Pico Mountain in Killington; Sugarbush Resort in Warren; and Bolton Valley in Bolton. Summer programs are provided state-wide.

With nearly 400 active volunteers, 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.

Mission 
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.

Our Vision
We believe sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual. To that end, we extend an enormous thanks to our affiliates, sponsors and partners who believe in our mission and vision, and who afford us the opportunity to bring sports and recreation to our clients' lives.

• anonymous donated $200.00 May 4, 2016
• Perky & Joaquin Garcia donated $120.00 July 7, 2016 ... "We'll be e-stalking you"
• Dennis A. Muirhead donated $35.00 May 5, 2016 ... "Run Safe"
• Christie donated $25.00 May 5, 2016 ... "Go Ian, go! ??"
• Mike D. donated $20.00 May 6, 2016
• Anna donated $20.00 May 5, 2016 ... "Happy running!"
• Toot donated $10.00 July 5, 2016 ... "Go Madman!"