Calgary Sledathon challenges athletes to push for families and veterans this holiday season

Athletes working out at Bold Athlete and raising money for the Owen Hart Foundation’s Christmas Project. (CTV News Calgary)

A Calgary-based fitness organization is once again using physical challenge to fuel community support during the holiday season.

Bold Athlete is hosting its annual Sledathon from Dec. 13 to 21, aiming to raise $25,000 for families and veterans experiencing financial hardship.

Proceeds from the event will support the Owen Hart Foundation’s Christmas Project, which provides holiday gifts, groceries and Christmas trees to those in need across Calgary.

The week-long fundraiser takes place at the Bold Athlete Gym inside Father David Bauer Arena near the University of Calgary.

Participants are challenged to push weighted sleds, with each repetition contributing toward fundraising totals.

Organizers say the event is designed to bring together businesses, teams and individuals while creating a tangible impact in the community.

“We are ready to push these sleds to help families in need,” said Martha Hart, founder and director of the Owen Hart Foundation.

“Providing a full Christmas and helping our Canadian vets with Christmas baskets and also the homeless with our mitten tree is so important so thank you Calgary and Bold Athlete for supporting this.”

The Sledathon has grown significantly since it began in 2017, when it raised about $2,500 in its first year.

Last year, the event brought in more than $18,000, and organizers say this year’s $25,000 target reflects both growing participation and increasing demand for holiday support.

Local businesses can take part by registering teams, sponsoring the event by pledging donations based on the number of sled repetitions completed, or by making direct financial contributions.

Porsche Calgary and Dynamic YYC are among the sponsors already committed, pledging $1 for every sled repetition completed during the event.

Organizers estimate most teams complete between 1,000 and 1,500 repetitions over the week.

Individuals who are unable to participate in person can also donate directly, with funds going toward essential holiday items for families and veterans supported by the Owen Hart Foundation.

Tax receipts are available for donations.

Organizers say every sled push and donation helps ensure local families and veterans are not left behind during the holiday season.

More information on registration, sponsorship and donations is available through Bold Athlete’s website and social media platforms.