Ironman supports community through grants

Over the past seven years, World Triathlon Corporation, owner of Ford Ironman, has contributed more than nearly $200,000 to the Coeur d'Alene community, which is distributed to a variety of area organizations.

About $15,000 a year goes to volunteer groups that help at various aid stations throughout the bike/run course, as well as to others who volunteer during the Ironman event.

The Ironman Community Fund also distributes $15,000 annually in grants. At the March 2 City Council meeting, individuals representing the following organizations received grants from the Ironman Community Fund: Jeff Wickham, Boy Scouts of American Camp Easton; Mike Darcy, City of Coeur d'Alene Recreation Department; Clark Campbell, Fernan Elementary; Suzanne Cano, City of Hayden Recreation Department; Angie Hannon, Hayden Meadows Elementary; Judi Owens, Mullan Trail Elementary; Jim Wyatt, Ponderosa Elementary; Sue Lauer, Post Falls School District 273 district meet; Mary Knight, Prairie View Elementary; Nancy Lowry, Kroc Center; David Hirsch, Seltice Way Elementary; Angie Goucher, Specialized Needs Recreation Camp Allstars; and Steve Somers, West Ridge Elementary.

The following organizations were also awarded grants from the Ironman Community Fund this year: School District 271 district meet, Coeur d'Alene Youth Triathlon, and Ramsey Elementary.

"The Ironman Community Fund is an exciting, vital component of the link that the World Triathlon Corporation has with the community," said Mayor Sandi Bloem. "Through the fund, financial opportunities are provided to help those organizations that support youth sports activities."

The fund placed a heavy emphasis on providing youth sports opportunities as a means of spreading goodwill to those people impacted by the race.

For more information about the Ironman Community Fund, please contact Susan Weathers at 769-2231.