I am very pleased to announce that this year the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is the Presenting Sponsor of RODS Racing 2013 (Racing for Orphans with Down syndrome). RODS Racing is comprised of 40 superior athletes who will collectively compete in more than 224 marathons, triathlons and other events this year alone to raise money to find homes in the United States for orphaned children with Down syndrome who live in other parts of the world. The IPC has donated $50,000, which will cover the adoption costs of two orphans.
Every day, thousands of children around the globe are born with Down syndrome. In industrialized countries like the U.S., these children are provided with resources and support that allow them to live healthy, happy and often productive lives. Unfortunately, in many countries these children are often institutionalized and don't often receive the care or love they need to flourish. RODS Racing is committed to finding homes in the U.S. for these children so they can have the fulfilling lives they deserve.
For many years, the IPC has been a strong supporter of programs that promote healthy lifestyles. Over the years we have sponsored many different sporting events such as college football, marathons and women's cycling. Our partnership with RODS Racing takes our commitment to a whole new level. Idaho potatoes will provide these elite athletes with not only the endurance they need to cross the finish line, but the added fuel and encouragement of knowing their hard work and dedication will help find much-needed homes in the U.S. for orphaned children with Down syndrome.
RODS Racing team members will compete in high-profile athletic events including more than five Ironman races, the Famous Idaho Potato Marathon in Boise and the Boston Marathon. The team's jerseys will prominently display the Idaho potato logo and each team member will individually raise at least $1,000 to support RODS Racing.
This year, RODS Racing is committed to finding homes for two orphans. One child is Elvis. Elvis lives in China and was born in October of 2009. He is an adorable little boy who is extremely affectionate and loves to interact with people. The money raised will be used to cover the adoption costs, which total more than $18,000, in order to find a home for Elvis in the U.S.
When the founder of RODS Racing, Brady Murray, presented this sponsorship opportunity to the nine Commissioners, they unanimously voted to support this wonderful cause. Brady's son has Down syndrome, and what admittedly seemed to be the greatest challenge of his life has turned out to be his greatest blessing.
For more information about RODS Racing, visit www.rodsracing.org. PG