Toronto, ON (June 17, 2009) - Canadian Olympic Bronze Medalist in rowing, Tracy Cameron and race partner Marilyn Taylor are “Paying it Forward” as they challenge the Tour Transalps to raise money for Canadian Winter Athletes through the Canadian Athletes Now Fund.

The Tour Transalps (June 28th- July 4th) is the largest bike race over the Alps: 7 days, 7 stages, 880 kilometers, 18,000 meters altitude difference. It begins in Germany, weaves through Austria and ends at Lake Arcos, Italy.

On her road to the Olympics Tracy was a recipient of the CAN Fund (see below). During her year away from rowing Tracy has decided to help clear the waiting list of winter athletes in need who still await support. “Our winter athletes are in their final push to Vancouver and it’s important for them to focus their energy on training, and not worry about finding money for better equipment and groceries,” said Tracy. “I know what it’s like to struggle financially and when someone helps alleviate that burden it’s incredibly uplifting. Having just realized my dream at the Games in Beijing, it’s my turn to do what I can to give back to the CAN Fund.”

The goal is to find seven companies to take ownership over each stage of the tour; for every stage one athlete will receive direct financial support through the CAN Fund. For a $10,000 contribution the company will receive a tax receipt and the donor will find out which athlete they’ve adopted.

In addition, the adopted athlete will arrange a company visit to share their story about their journey to the 2010 Games.

Also, we are inviting 880 Canadians to sponsor 1km of Tracy’s race for a minimum donation of $10. You will find out the athlete you have supported and receive a tax receipt. “Collectively we can accomplish great things; I know that even small contributions can change lives. We depend on the financial support of people who believe that given the chance we are capable of being world class athletes. The Canadian Athletes Now Fund believes and makes it possible for us to complete our journeys and share the adventure with others!” says Cameron.

To sponsor 1km of Tracy’s Tour Transalps click here

For more information or to book an interview:
Athlete: Tracy Cameron cell 403-461-2619 or Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
CAN Fund: Jane Roos cell 416-706-4824 or Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

About the Canadian Athletes Now Fund
The Canadian Athletes Now Fund is a not-for-profit organization devoted solely to raising money and awareness for our Canadian athletes. Celebrating its 12th year of providing direct funding to our athletes, the Fund has helped over 700 Canadian athletes prepare for international summer and winter competitions. Canadian athletes allocate this direct financial support to their training, coaching, nutrition and living expenses. For every contribution over $25 a tax receipt is issued and the donor finds out which athlete they have supported. www.CanadianAthletesNow.ca