MONROE — The “Fat-Man Triathlon” is returning Saturday, May 3, to raise money for Monroe’s Community Uplift Program.
The “Fat Man Triathlon” consists of three events unlike any other traditional triathlon competition, which are normally comprised of cycling, swimming and running. The “Fat Man Triathlon,” on the other hand, is comprised of golfing, shooting and bowling.
Regardless of what makes up the triathlon, the event is an important one to the Community Uplift Program.
“Over the last two years, it’s helped us raise approximately $20,000,” said Community Uplift Program director Sam Struth.
The money has gone to several programs throughout Monroe County, including providing equine therapy for veterans, the Monroe County Opportunity Program’s homeless outreach programs, and a program with the Sheriff’s Office to mentor troubled youths.
“There’s a lot of hidden programs out there that people don’t know about,” Struth said.
“We see the value in providing a fun event regardless of what you do for entertainment and with that it generates revenue to put back into the community to help veterans and veteran-centric programs,” said Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough, who is a member of the Uplift Program and who came up with the first triathlon.
As of Monday, March 31, the triathlon has had 11 two-person teams sign up and the hope is to have 35, after they had 24 last year and 18 the year before that. The fundraising goal is $15,000.
“If we get the 35 teams we set our goal for, that’s reasonable, because we’ve got certain major sponsors that are coming back this year,” Struth said.
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Local sponsorships are where the majority of the money comes from, largely provided by local businesses who want to support their community like restaurants, electricians, and plumbing and heating companies.
“They’re all big hearted and love to help support their community,” Struth said.
If you want to join as a sponsor or part of a team you can email communityupliftprogram@gmail.com.
— Contact reporter Connor Veenstra at CVeenstra@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: ‘Fat Man Triathlon’ returns to raise money for Monroe’s Community Uplift Program
Reporting by Connor Veenstra, The Monroe News / The Monroe News
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