PHLYTRI News
50-50-50 Comes to Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon
Man makes the Philly Tri #29 on his list
PHILADELPHIA (June 21, 2006) – Completing one triathlon is a grueling task. Imagine completing one triathlon in each of the 50 United States, all by the time you turn 50. That’s the challenge taken on by triathlete Dave Mandelkern, who will be competing in the 2006 Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon in Fairmount Park this Sunday. The Pennsylvania stop will officially be the 29th state on his way to completing a triathlon in all 50 states by his 50th birthday in August 2009.
“I completed my first triathlon in 2000 at age 41,” said Mandelkern. “I got hooked on the sport not only for the health and fitness benefits, but also because I’m able to turn my willingness to complete an endurance athletic event into an opportunity to benefit others.”
The 50x50x50 Challenge is more than a never-been-done-before athletic accomplishment; it is also an effort to raise $150,000 for three important charities. Mandelkern’s goal is to raise $1000 from individuals in each state where he competes, and then have his corporate sponsors match those donations two dollars for every dollar donated by an individual, resulting in donations of $50,000 each to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Challenged Athletes Foundation, and World T.E.A.M. Sports. 100\% of all money raised goes directly to the three charities. Mr. Mandelkern personally pays for the race, travel and administrative expenses of the 50x50x50 Challenge.
“Beyond raising money for three worthy organizations, I hope that my 50 races in 50 states will capture the imagination of other ordinary people like me,” said Mandelkern, “and encourage them to challenge themselves physically regardless of their previous athletic background.”
“We are honored that Dave has selected our race as the Pennsylvania stop on his 50x50x50 Challenge,” said Lars Beck Race Director for the 2006 Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon. “Every one of our participants makes an incredible commitment to train for and compete in a triathlon, but to attempt to complete a triathlon in each of the 50 United States is truly remarkable.”