Celebrating the Finish!

Between September 8-18, two middle-aged men took a 300 mile journey on the Erie Canal from Buffalo to Albany in a two-man racing boat (scull). It tested their endurance, commitment, and friendship. They succeeded in their efforts to raise awareness and funding of Cancer and Heart Disease Rehabiliation programs. Now, they invite you to share in the experience, by making a donation, or maybe embark on your own adventure of a lifetime.

 (Read their story, then scroll to the bottom for more information on how to participate).

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Two years ago, Alan Kitty and Steve Raffuel made a pact to row this venue to raise awareness and funding for programs that focus on peer support, and physical activity as critical parts of the recovery process for those who have experienced life-threatening ailments such as Heart Disease and Cancer.

Both participants are members of the Carnegie Lake Rowing Association, a Masters rowing club in Princeton, NJ. There are Masters rowing clubs throughout the world, and more than 170,000 participants in the US alone. Alan and Steve have competed in regattas throughout the US and Canada, including two International Masters championships, the Head of the Charles and San Diego Crew Classic.

Having rowed at Temple University, Alan joined the Carnegie Lake Master's program in 1999. Alan knows first hand about the limited availability of after-care resources that help a patient return to a quality of life that can match, or even surpass, that which was known before. He has survived two heart attacks and endured bypass surgery as well as a subsequent stent implant. 

Never having rowed before, Steve joined the Carnegie Lake novice program in 1996. Born and raised in Utica, NY, and graduating form Niagara University, he is both familiar with and emotionally connected to his Upstate roots. Steve's wife is a Breast Cancer Survivor and his father recently suffered a Heart Attack. The idea of rowing the Erie Canal occurred to him on a drive to visit his family, who still live in the region.  

the jouney has been joined in a terrific outpouring of support by associates, family, friends, major news organizations, rowing equipment manufacturers and outfitters, members of the healthcare community, and folks like you. Go to the donation page to learn how you can help keep the cause going.

If you are a rower, and would like to participate in a 2008 Canal Row (not necessarily 300 miles), complete the form below; You don't need to take ten days off. This will be a relay, with members of your team participating in fund raising. The team that raises the most and finishes the fastest will win an award for their work in support of  the Heart Attack and Breast Cancer Challenge.  Also let us know if you are interested in participating in the organization of the event.