Gary Kirby Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

Dear Friends

In June 2012, we hosted our seventh annual triathlon to benefit cancer research in the memory of husband, Dad, Grandpa, and friend, Gary Kirby. With our gift this year to Duke Cancer Institute in the amount of $17,222, we will have contributed over $113,000 in the past seven years to fund research to find new cancer treatments and cures.
It is with much mixed emotion that we have decided to put off the triathlon as our fundraiser for 2013. We know we will miss the excitement and joy on the faces of our participants but are also so thankful for all that we have accomplished with your help.

To Our first time triathletes---When the Gary Kirby Triathlon was first planned; the course was designed to encourage first time triathletes to compete. So many people chose the Gary Kirby Triathlon as their first triathlon. Thank you for choosing to honor our race and allowing us the privilege of seeing your triumphant joy as you crossed the finish line. Keep on keeping on!!!

To Our Faithful Repeats— We saw many faces year after year, some all seven years of the race! You blessed us with your time, your dedication to our race. We loved watching you set new personal best times each year. You are an inspiration to so many.

To Our Volunteers----We can not even begin to say thank you. It is because of your dedication of your time and service that our triathlon was a continued success. We heard story after story of how you encouraged and volunteered with such love. THANK YOU!!!!!

To Our Sponsors--- We are so grateful. Your continued generosity to support us in our endeavor to fund cancer research is so appreciated. We hope that our tee shirts, still being worn will continue to promote your businesses and witness to how you reach out to the community.

To Our Donors---Thank you for your generosity. Whether you supported us because of your relationship with Gary, one of us, or you were dedicated to our cause, we feel blessed that you chose to support the Gary Kirby Charitable Fund for Cancer Research.

The Gary Kirby Charitable Fund for Cancer Research will continue as a 501(c)3 organization. We will send out a website link in 2013 for anyone who would still like to donate. As a family, we will continue to support cancer research, and we hope that you will also. You have been such a blessing to us.

To those who are fighting cancer themselves, or who are supporting a loved one dealing with cancer, we would like encourage you with Gary’s favorite scripture. Gary inspired everyone by modeling this scripture with his attitude while he battled cancer. Our charitable fund has always used this as our motto:
“Be joyful always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances for this God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Sincerely

Scott Kirby, Marie Kirby, Kari Shoaf, Craig Shoaf