August 29, 2009 (Banff, AB) – Olympic cross-country skier Phil Widmer is reaching out to his home community of Banff, AB for assistance in raising the funds he needs to reach the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. With the Olympics only five months away, Widmer, a member of the 2009-10 Canadian National Development Team, is giving himself every opportunity to succeed, paying $15,000 out of pocket in order to attend all the team training camps throughout the summer and fall months. As a result of this financial burden, Widmer has decided to host a personal fundraising event to help offset some of these expenses.

The luncheon will take place on Thursday, September 10th, at Ticino Restaurant beginning at 11:30 a.m. Guests will be treated to a rare, behind-the-scenes look into Widmer’s life as a World Cup ski racer and hear about his preparations leading up to his second Olympic Winter Games.

According to Widmer, the luncheon is his last opportunity to raise the funds he needs to support him in his drive to the Olympics. “The majority of the funding leading up to 2010 has been focused on those athletes who have already won medals at the World Cup level. At the age of 25, I’m confident that I’m on the cusp of where I need to be to reach that level; however, the added financial pressures do become a distraction. Overall, I feel the luncheon will be an excellent opportunity to reconnect with my hometown, recognize the generous individuals in the community who are already supporting me, and raise some additional funds to assist me in reaching my ultimate goal – Vancouver 2010,” explained Widmer.

Tickets for the luncheon can be purchased for $50 at www.philwidmer.com, or from Ticino Restaurant at 415 Banff Avenue. The lunch will consist of a three-course Swiss-Italian gourmet meal.

Lunch with an Olympian

WHEN: Thursday, September 10 – 11:30a.m.

WHERE: Ticino Restaurant
415 Banff Avenue
403.762.3848

WHO: Phil Widmer
Olympic Cross-Country Skier

MEDIA:
Widmer will be available from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.