I’m sending out this letter to all of my friends and family members.

On Sunday, September 11, 2011, I’m participating in a Full Triathlon in Sandusky, Ohio, as a fundraiser for two organizations: Maryland Therapeutic Riding (MTR) and Kimberly Clark's Thoroughbred Placement and Rescue, Inc.  For more information on these two organizations, go to http://www.mtrinc.org/ or http://www.leightonfarm.com/.

In a full triathlon, participants swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles. There is a 17-hour time limit to complete the three segments of the triathlon.  My inspiration for doing this is simple: both groups help individuals facing great challenges of their own. The MTR helps children and adults with special needs, and military personnel facing challenges including: post traumatic stress disorder, brain injury, depression, anxiety, amputation, etc. The MTR relies heavily on private donations. Kimberly Clark's organization helps find homes for unwanted and retiring Thoroughbred race horses that would otherwise end up being euthanized or sent to slaughter. Both organizations rely solely on donations for their good work.

Challenging myself to complete this Ironman-distance triathlon is the least I can do to help raise awareness for two very deserving organizations.

All donations are tax deductible. My goal is to raise a total of $10,000 – that means $5,000 for each group.

To pledge your support, click on the link to my email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  to make your pledge. Send me a note stating the amount of your pledge. I’m not collecting any money.

When I finish the triathlon,I will send out e-mails or letters to everyone who pledged with the mailing address to both groups so you can mail your checks to them. By sending your own checks to each organization, it will be much easier for you to take the tax deduction. If you pledge $50, then $25 goes to each group, etc.

I’m very excited about this upcoming triathlon.  I have been training very hard for quite some time, and expect to do well.  And I’m looking forward to being able to make a difference in at least one person's life as a result of my commitment and your generous contribution.  Thank you in advance for your support!

Sincerely,


Tim Keefe
PO Box 186
Sandy Spring, MD 20860