Vermont 50 History Lesson #VT50 #VT50mi #VT50K #mountainbikes #ultrarun #VT #NH #vermontadaptive
A Note from Mike S. Race Director.
Hi all!
I keep thinking how 17 years ago I was given the opportunity to RD the Vermont 50. I knew then it was a wonderful honor to be given such an event. More importantly, I was given a Race Committee that took pride in this fundraiser for Vermont Adaptive.
I became one of the RDs: Laura Farrell the Founder, Jim Hutchinson, and Bob Gray who build the reputation of a race many wanted to get in. Laura who started the Vermont 50 as a running race and others grew it into a MT Bike race that overwhelmed the runner. Listening to some runners years ago, I brought on the 50K and the 50 mile relay. Now with equal number of entries, you have learned to share the trails with great respect for one another. THANK YOU!!!!
I have seen young couples meet and marry at the VT 50, proposals at the finish line, weddings on course, and people buy homes so they are near the race. I have watched children grow up as they come for a family weekend in September to enjoy the 50.
Many of you know me because you are part of the VT 50 family. I want to welcome all of you new members to the clan. I hope you get to experience the VT50 at its best this year. We will try to make this happen!
I want to remind all of us this is truly an important fundraiser for Vermont Adaptive and want you to understand who they really are. You can visit www.vermontadaptive.org to learn more.
MAYBE even donate too.
Here is some background:
Welcome to Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, a place where youth and adults with disabilities gain a measure of self-confidence and independence by participating in adaptive sports programs and activities. 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, and more.
We serve clients of all abilities with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities from all over the world in three locations in Vermont during the winter Killington Mt and Pico Mt 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.
Statement of Belief
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.
Laura Farrell is really the reason we are here at the VT 50. She is the one of the main reason I am so willing to be your host every September. She is the founder of Vermont Adaptive and to help support her dream Laura started the Vermont 100 and the Vermont 50. It would give me great fulfillment to have all of you, if you are able to, make any donation you can directly to Vermont Adaptive. I know you are all wonderful individuals with big hearts.
Enjoy and be Safe
Mike and the Race Committee
See you all soon!