PROVIDENCE, RI – The Greater Providence YMCA participated in the annual Race4Chase Triathlon today. This inspiring event, organized in collaboration with the CMAK Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation, honors the memory of Chase Kowalski. In its 11th year, the Race4Chase program aims to provide children with a safe, healthy, and positive outlet through the sport of triathlon.
Participants from various branches of the Greater Providence Y, including the Bayside Family Y, Cranston Y, and Kent County Y, came together with the YMCA of Pawtucket’s MacColl Branch, Newport County Y, and Ocean Community Y’s Westerly-Pawcatuck Branch. Additionally, youth athletes from the Hale YMCA of Greater Hartford (CT) and the Middleboro Branch of the Old Colony YMCA also participated in this event.
The Race4Chase program spanned six weeks, providing children with expert coaching, physical training, and the skills necessary to compete in a youth triathlon. The program emphasized the values of perseverance, discipline, and sportsmanship while fostering a sense of community among participants.
“We’re honored to participate in the Race4Chase Triathlon and bring together young athletes from across our Association,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of the Greater Providence YMCA. “This event is a heartfelt tribute to Chase Kowalski’s memory and helps to reinforce important values like health, wellness, and community spirit in our youth.”
“We are incredibly honored to see the spirit of Chase live on through the Race4Chase program,” said Rebecca Kowalski, President of the CMAK Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation. “This triathlon not only empowers children to achieve their personal best, but also brings communities together to celebrate health, fitness, and the resilience of our youth.”
The triathlon included swimming, biking, and running segments, designed to challenge and engage children of all skill levels. Family members, friends, and community supporters attended and cheered on the participants as they crossed the finish line.
Photo and video footage from the event attached.
About GPYMCA
GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, plus Providence Youth Services, Camp Fuller, and the Shooting Stars School of Dance in Seekonk. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents
of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.
CMAK Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation
The CMAK Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation was established to honor Chase Kowalski’s memory by providing children with opportunities to engage in healthy, active lifestyles through various programs and events, including the Race4Chase Kids Triathlon Program. The foundation is dedicated to fostering a sense of community, perseverance, and personal achievement among youth participants.
