Heartwood Hall in Owen Sound is hosting a fundraiser tonight in support of Georgian Bluffs cross country skier Julian Smith.
Organizer and Smith’s mother Heidi Tones says the event starting at 7 p.m., is the 11th fundraiser they’ve held to help cover costs.
“His father and I are putting on this Communiski event to raise money to help cover the cost of his race, travel and training expenses for the upcoming ski season,” says Tones.
She says the event will include live music from the Keppel Bandits, food and drink, the chance to meet Smith, as well as trivia and door prizes.
“It’s been amazing, we usually have about 100 people come out, so it is really well supported, people are very generous,” says Tones.
She says they are looking to raise $7,000 to support the costs of using various training facilities, travel and coaches.
“For Julian to pursue the career that he is at and the level that he is at, he must train at altitude. When he leaves the fundraiser, he will be flying to Utah to train up in the mountains. He spends 12 months of the year training, with just a couple of weeks off in the spring,” says Tones.
She says Smith has had a lengthy ski career participating in competitions both locally and abroad, with plans to participate in a few over the next couple months.
“His big goal for the season is to qualify for the World Championships that are being held in Trondheim in the new year, so that is what all of his focus on his training is,” says Tones.
Those interested in attending the ticketed event can request more information from Tones by calling 519-477-8870 or emailing smith.tones@gmail.com.