¦ July 23, 2010
FOLLOW UP ON 2nd ANNUAL RUN WALK 'N WHEELATHON TORONTO
Hundreds of Participants Flood the Track!

On Thursday, July 15th, 2010, hundreds of participants raced to find a cure for paralysis at the 2nd Annual Honda Indy Toronto Run Walk N Wheelathon.  Runners, walkers and wheelers of all ages supported the Shoot For A Cure campaign and the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation, raising just over $25,000, double the amount raised at last year's event.

Said Ida Cahill, president of SSPF, "We had another great experience with the folks from Shoot For A Cure.  Everyone who attended had a great time running /walking /wheeling the same track as the IZOD IndyCar and Firestone Indy Lights will run on.  We want to particularly thank Honda Indy and Kevin Savoree and Kim Green for giving us the opportunity.  They’ve helped us raise thousands of dollars for research that will take place in Toronto."

The Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation and Bayshore Home Health sponsored the event and were elated with the initiative of the entire Indycar family, who graciously supplied the track for the event and were tremendous supporters of the overall cause. Shoot For A Cure and the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation would also like to thank print media partner, The Toronto Sun, and the numerous event partners for their generous support. With the overwhelming response, both organizations are anticipating another great and successful event in 2011.

The Canadian Spinal Research Organization Chairman, Barry Munro, commented on the success of the event, “It was an absolute thrill to see so many spinal cord injured consumers, their family and friends, community volunteers and our event partners come together for one great cause.  Proceeds raised from this event helps us to continue to fund the vital research, so that one day soon, we can find a cure for paralysis.”

Celebrity participants included Toronto mayoral candidate, Rocco Rossi, former "The Bachelor" participant Jessie Sulidis, professional race car driver “Speedy” Dan Clarke and NHL Alumnus Bryan Mui.   Singer Sarah Westbrook performed the national anthems.

After successfully crossing the finish line, participants and volunteers enjoyed a BBQ and after party sponsored by Hooters and the Dr. Pepper Drink Team, with an opportunity to visit several injury awareness information booths. Participants also had the chance to relax and enjoy a variety of services donated by a collection of vendors from across the city of Toronto.  

To learn more about the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation please contact Ida Cahill at icahill@samschmidt.org.  For more information about the Run, Walk 'N Wheelathon events, contact event coordinator Cindy Norton at cnort4@insightbb.com