Women at the Helm 2008

Today, 18 helmswomen and their crew members set sail from the Thunder Bay Yacht Club at the Marina to participate in the 9th Annual Women at the Helm – Irene Prezio “Race for Hope” in support of the Northern Cancer Fund. The popular event featured women-helmed sail boats in spinnaker and non-spinnaker races.

The first place winner of the non-spinnaker sail race was TNT, helmed by Laura St. Jacques & Donna Sandberg, and TETHANI won the spinnaker sail race, helmed by Janet Brooks.

Overall, $50,500 (net) was raised in support of excellence in cancer care for the people of Northwestern Ontario. More than $335,000 has been raised by the event in its nine-year history. The top pledge earning participant, Judi Wood, collected $2170 in pledge. Honourary mention also goes to title sponsor Gary Prezio, who raised $12,500 in pledges.

Event chair Andre St. Jacques is pleased with the results. “I want to thank the many sponsors, volunteers, pledge supporters and participants who made today’s ‘Race for Hope’ a success,” he says. St. Jacques noted the popularity of newly added harbour cruises which “provided a unique experience for spectators.”

The event is named in memory of the late wife of Gary Prezio of title sponsor Prezio Electric. “I am proud of the impact the ‘Race for Hope’ has, and will continue to have, on cancer care in Northwestern Ontario,” he says.

Glenn Craig, President & CEO of the Health Sciences Foundation, says the ongoing success of Women at the Helm – Irene Prezio “Race for Hope” is inspiring. “In its ninth year, the event is as popular as ever. Our community has embraced this opportunity to battle cancer through their support of an amazing event,” he says.

Women at the Helm – Irene Prezio “Race for Hope” supports of the Northern Cancer Fund of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. 100% of funds raised remain in Northwestern Ontario.

:: back to Media Releases ::