A Legacy Born from Heartbreak

In the crisp autumn of 2012, a spirited young boy named Chase Kowalski achieved a milestone: completing his first triathlon. Tragically, just months later, Chase's journey was cut short by the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy. Today, his vibrant spirit ignites the fire of potential in countless young athletes through the Race4Chase Youth Triathlon Program, a beacon of hope and resilience born from profound sorrow.

Starting June 1, 2025, the Southington-Cheshire Community YMCA will launch its annual 26-day Race4Chase challenge. This initiative isn't just a fundraiser—it's a heartfelt tribute, with participants running, biking, or swimming 2.6 miles daily for 26 consecutive days. Each step, each stroke, is a pledge to foster a future where children can thrive in Chase's memory.

The Heartbeat of Race4Chase

The numbers woven into Race4Chase—26 days, 2.6 miles—are a poignant homage to the 26 lives lost at Sandy Hook. This thoughtful structuring ensures that as participants push their limits, they're also deeply connected to a mission of remembrance and empowerment.

Mark Pooler, CEO of the YMCA, shares, "Race4Chase is one of our most profound initiatives, touching the core of our mission in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Each day of the challenge is a step towards healing, honoring the 26 beautiful lives we carry in our hearts."

From its humble beginnings, Race4Chase has expanded to 28 locations across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and South Carolina, a testament to the universal resonance of its vision.

Inside the 26-Day Challenge

The challenge kicks off with Mark Pooler and 25 volunteers from the community, each committed to the daily 2.6-mile journey. Participants include YMCA staff, educators, business leaders, and local heroes, all united by a common goal—to raise $43,000 to ensure the triathlon program remains free for all children.

"The funds we raise are crucial," explains Pooler. "They allow every child the opportunity to participate, to grow, and to excel, irrespective of their financial background."

Transforming Young Lives Through Triathlon

On June 23, the youth program begins at YMCA Camp Sloper, where children aged 6-12 embark on a six-week journey of swimming, biking, and running. The program culminates in a celebratory triathlon on August 4, 2025, symbolizing not just the completion of their training but the start of lifelong resilience and confidence.

Brandon Roillano, head coach at Cheshire's Race4Chase, observes, "Watching these kids transform from tentative beginners to confident triathletes is incredibly rewarding. They're not just learning to swim, bike, and run—they're learning to believe in themselves, inspired by Chase's enduring legacy."

The Ripple Effect: Beyond Physical Fitness

• Emotional Growth: Kids develop resilience and a sense of accomplishment.
• Social Skills: Training alongside peers fosters friendships and community ties.
• Personal Development: The challenge of triathlon teaches valuable life lessons in perseverance and goal-setting.

Join the Movement

The Race4Chase program thrives on community support. Here’s how you can be a part of this transformative journey:

• Participate in the Challenge: Embark on the 26-day journey to make a difference.
• Donate: Support the program financially to help it reach more children.
• Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to nurture the next generation of triathletes.
• Spread the Word: Share the story of Race4Chase to inspire others to join the cause.

A Legacy of Joy and Transformation

Race4Chase is more than a program—it's a movement. It transforms the agony of a past tragedy into a source of strength and joy for the future. Each child who crosses the finish line is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, carrying forward not just their achievements but the cherished memory of Chase and his classmates.

Whether you run, bike, swim, or cheer—your involvement brings us one step closer to a world where every child knows the triumph of crossing their finish line. Join us in making a difference, in celebrating life, and in moving forward, together.