Whistler Spirit Run Announces First Ever Recipient of Frank Reynolds Memorial Bursary

Whistler Spirit Run Announces First Ever Recipient For Frank Reynolds Memorial Bursary North Vancouver’s Devin Rajala

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 31 2011 – Vancouver, BC – The Whistler Spirit Run, presented by Rio Tinto Alcan, set for September 24, 2011 is pleased to announce that the first recipient to receive the Frank Reynolds Memorial Bursary is North Vancouver’s Devin Rajala.

The Frank Reynolds Memorial Bursary is awarded each fall to a graduating student athlete who plans to continue their athletic career and education.  The Whistler Spirit Run administers and funds the Bursary.  Candidates should submit their applications to the Whistler Spirit Run before December 1st each year.  Criteria for selection and application forms can be found on the Whistler Spirit Run website www.whistlerspiritrun.com

“Devin is a recent grade 12 graduating student from Argyle Secondary School and has repeatedly shown all of the characteristics and leadership qualities for our selection committee to make this decision”, stated Barry Adams, Board Member of The Whistler Spirit Run.  “Our goal with this Bursary is to recognize an outstanding athlete and young individual that has continually displayed these qualities in all aspects of life and recognizes what hard work and commitment can mean overall.”

The Whistler Spirit Run, part of the Vancouver Sun Run Series and BC Athletics Cross Country Series, is a Cross Country and Trail running event featuring something for everyone at Whistler Olympic Park. It is the realization of the late coach Frank Reynolds’ vision to have a mass participation cross country event while encouraging and supporting British Columbia high school and University athletes through charitable donations and scholarship programs.

Devin Rajala said, “I am both honoured and thankful for this award.  Frank Reynolds was an inspirational coach who was respected by everyone that knew him. One of my favorite quotes from Frank, ‘Focus on the process not the outcome’, demonstrated his knowledgeable approach to the sport.  He really propelled his athletes to success on and off the track.”

The criteria for this Award are posted for review on the Whistler Spirit Run website atwww.whistlerspiritrun.com – where submission and deadline information is also available.  All athletes and coaches are encouraged to submit an application by the deadline of December 1st, 2011.

Everyone is encouraged to take part and register in this year’s exciting event. The Whistler Spirit Run sees a variety of athletes cross the finish line. One of this year’s exciting attractions is the “The Whistler Spirit Relay Challenge”. All teams – corporate, school, family and fun teams are encouraged to register for this event. A permanent trophy has been created and it will proudly and permanently be on display at Whistler Olympic Park. Who will win this trophy for the very first time? Find out on September 24th!

For more information, visit www.whistlerspiritrun.com or contact us atwhistlerspiritrun@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.