With the annual Champ’s Challenge less than a month away, we have been discussing on our committee calls how we can boost participation this year. Whether it’s by riding, running, attending the BBQ, volunteering, or just sponsoring a rider/runner, we want to get more people involved and have this year be our most successful year yet. For those of you who don’t know, Champ’s Challenge is a cycling (and now also running) fundraiser that was started in 2006 as a way to raise money to support our Recreation Grant program. This program allows people with CF to get gym memberships, take yoga classes, go to summer camps, take golf lessons, etc. People can apply for any activity they want, the only guideline is that it has to be something that keeps them active. We believe that staying active through exercise is key in living a long, healthy life with CF.

What a lot of people don’t know about the CFLF is that we are a small non-profit organization that is not affiliated with any other organizations. We rely on donations and grants to run our programs. Currently we have two offices, one in Vermont and one in Florida, and we have a total of three employees. We are also supported by an amazing board of directors that are from all over the United States. But the main point is that we’re still a very small organization, with a HUGE financial demand for recreation grants. 

Anyway, with all that being said, I wanted to give the top 5 reasons why participating in this year’s Champ’s Challenge is a good idea.

1. It’s supporting an amazing non-profit organization that directly impacts the lives of people with CF. Our grant program needs your help so badly right now as the demand has tripled in the last year and we are having to turn away many deserving people. Your contribution is without a doubt going towards helping people with CF live stronger, and longer lives.

2. It’s the most beautiful ride (or run) you can take in Vermont. And we’ve lucked out for all but one year and had amazing weather (knock on wood.) The courses all take you along beautiful Lake Champlain with scenic views of the green mountains and Adirondacks. You may even spot “Champ” along the way, the namesake of the event, a mysterious “lake monster” who is legendary in Vermont, who has only been spotted a few times.

3. The catered BBQ luncheon afterward at The Basin Harbor Club is well worth your hard work riding or running. A lot of people have said over the years that their favorite part of the day is the luncheon, and it keeps them coming back. It’s that good. Not only is the food delicious but it’s out on a patio overlooking the lake.

4. The raffle prizes are always from some of the best places in Vermont. And there are so many that you’re bound to win something if you buy multiple tickets. This year’s prizes include a weekend stay in Kennebunkport Maine, a hot air balloon ride, various gift certificates to local restaurants, a glider ride, a one night stay at the Basin Harbor Club, and MANY more.

5. It’s a fun and healthy way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Whether you come alone or come with your family you’re guaranteed to have a good time. You can even stay afterward and cool off with a swim in the lake.

How you can get involved:

• Participate in either the 40 or 8 mile ride, or do the 5K run. Register and set up a fundraising page here.
• Don’t want to ride or run? You can sign up here to only participate in the luncheon afterward.
• Volunteer for the day of the event. Contact Erin Evans if interested at erin@cflf.org
• Sponsor a rider or runner here.
• Mail in a donation to: CFLF, P.O. Box 1344, Burlington VT 05402 (Be sure to say that it’s for Champ’s Challenge) Or click on the "Donate Now" button below.
• Spread the word! Know of people in the New England area who would be interested in supporting this worthy cause? Please pass this along to them.