April's Featured Athlete

Multisport Mastery is pleased to announce the April 2010 Featured Athlete:

Clari de la Cruz

But first, meet Beth. Beth is Clari's mother (below, left). I’ve been swimming masters with Beth for a few years. She’s a phenomenal swimmer, even went to the Olympic trials for Puerto Rico. She’s got wicked short course speed and no matter what – is always smiling.



Beth has two children; a son and a daughter. This summer, her daughter – Clari – is embarking on a two month cycling adventure across America. But it’s for more than just fun. She is riding for those who can’t – for those with muscular dystrophy. The cause connected to Clari because she understands what it means to not be able to do ride or do the things you love in life. You see, her brother, Gaby, has a chronic condition that leaves him in extreme pain requiring many neurological surgeries. This summer, Gaby needs another serious surgery that will leave him recovering in the hospital for over a month. While most kids will be out in the sun riding their bike and hanging out with friends, he won’t have that opportunity.

And so, Clari will ride – for her older brother and for others in a similar situation. In order to participate in this ride, Clari needs raise over $4,000 for the cause. To learn more about the cause or to make a donation, visit here:

http://jettride.org/elgg/pg/jettride/firstgiving/claridelacruz/

A few weeks ago, Beth asked if Clari could borrow one of my bikes. And so, Clari will be riding my Surly across the country. I’ve got to admit that I’m a little jealous that my bike gets to go on this adventure without me. But I know that this will be the opportunity of a lifetime for Clari (and the ride of my bike’s life!) and bring much needed funding and attention to an important cause.

Clari came over to get fitted on my bike and what struck me was her energy and compassion. She said that as soon as she learned about the ride, she felt immediately connected to it and wanted to do it not just for her brother but for all the kids who can’t do something that every kid can do – ride a bike.

After fitting Clari on the bike, I outfitted her with as much of my gear as possible – shorts, jerseys, socks, sunglasses. But being out there for 67 days, she’s needs some help! Not only that but cycling gear is expensive! Every little bit helps. If you have any old gear that you don’t use – whether it’s a pair of leg warmers, a base layer, please contact us at multisportmastery at comcastdotnet and I will pass the gear along to Clari.



Multisport Mastery is supporting Clari to help her help others affiliated with the Jett Ride cause. In doing so we also hope to inspire and encourage young women to get involved in fitness and sport. Sport is an excellent way for young women to build confidence and strength. Not only that, but the younger someone gets involved in sport and fitness, the more likely they will pave the way for healthy behaviors and habits for the future.

Clari is already training for the big event and is more than halfway to her fundraising goal. She’s been logging many miles with some local experienced cyclists. With only a few “stop and flops”, she’s been adjusting well to clipless pedals and shifting gears. In less than one month she will depart for the ride and cover thousands of miles on behalf of the Jett Ride.

Multisport Mastery wishes Clari nothing but safe travels, smooth roads and of course - tailwind!