Eric Metcalf and Charlie Garcia are Taft seniors who, in their own words, have spent the past three years running "side by side" in both cross-country and track. Todd '92 and Amanda McGovern '93 are Taft alumni who, for more than 5 years, have run a non-profit -- side by side. On alumni weekend, all four will join forces to benefit the McGovern's nonprofit while deepening their imprint on the Taft community.
On July 18, 2004, Todd McGovern was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The 30 year-old newleywed was told he had less than two years to live. According to the nonprofit's website, "Todd faced the ultimate decision: die a little each day, or live a little each day. He chose to Seas It."
Seas It is a nonprofit organization that promotes cancer recovery through recreation. Following his cancer diagnosis, Todd faced the difficult road by committing to those things that had always brought him comfort and a sense of well-being. A two-sport college athlete, staying active topped the list of commitments: being active both lifted Todd's spirits and improved his health. That personal commitment became the foundation of Seas It, which provides cancer patients and their families with the means to participate in recreational activities through individualized programs and services. Seas It also works to educate the public about the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle in both fighting and preventing cancer.
"When we heard about Todd and Amanda McGovern’s nonprofit organization, we saw a rewarding opportunity to give back to the school we love so much," explained Eric.
Adds Charlie, "Using Taft’s motto as an undercurrent for our work, we are excited to present our project to the Taft community and to the Watertown community."
Eric and Charlie have planned two separate events to benefit Seas It; both feature 5k and 1 mile run/walk options. On Saturday, May 19 Taft alumni are invited to run for the cause; event registration is limited to alumni on this day. The following day, Taft students, faculty and community members are invited to participate in “Sweat for Sweets.” Day two division winners will be awarded baked goods made by faculty member and Taft parents. There are over forty divisions, including all Taft sports teams (Varsity, JV and Thirds), a fastest Thesbian division (for Tafties involved in theater) and a Clydesdale division (for the fastest runner over 200 pounds).
Registration for the alumni-only event on May 19 is free; t-shirts may be purchased for $20. Registration for the community race on May 20 is $15 for race only, or $25 for race registration and tee. Race organizers Eric and Charlie are also looking for baked good donations and race-day volunteers. Email cgarcia@taftschool.org to help.
For more information about SeasIt, visit http://seasit.org/
Register to compete here:
ALUMNI REGISTRATION
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=dtlxm8cab&oeidk=a07e5os1h17d88eae89
STUDENT AND COMMUNITY REGISTRATION
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=dtlxm8cab&oeidk=a07e5urpxb36741c5b8
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