Meet David Harrison (right, with Grouse Snowshoe Grind summit ski patrol), who is making the climb for his best friend, John Yu.
What motivated you to make the climb?
The sporting challenge appeals to me, but I’m also participating because my best friend, John Yu, is a lung cancer survivor. He’s sponsoring me this year – $1 for each year of my age (77).
You said you enjoy the physical challenge, do you have a background with athletics?
Yes, I was a Masters Triathlete amateur, and I completed 94 or 95 Olympic distance Triathlons over a 20 year period after my 50th birthday, including 6 on national Canadian teams. Lung health is such an important factor in physical activity and I feel blessed to be able to enjoy these activities.
Due to osteoporosis I am no longer able to run and bike, but there are plenty of other activities I do now instead, including swimming and dragon boating.
What are you doing in preparation for the climb?
I’m very active – I just got home from snow shoeing! I want to make sure I can make it to the top as fast as possible – maybe even beat some of the others in my age group! I’m also hoping to raise $400, of which I already have nearly $300.
What do you hope to achieve with your climb?
I want to be a positive example for young people. I want them to see me climbing and be inspired to join me. It wouldn’t hurt if I managed to keep up with some of them, too!
You have already inspired your family to be active. We brag about you all the time –
especially as you were able to beat your daughter who is quite fit and 28 years younger, up the Grouse Grind on your 70th birthday! Not many adult daughters can say that they have completed half marathons and triathlons alongside their dads! I’m glad I can.
Thank you very much, David. You are a role model for all of us!
Thank you very much, David. You are such a role model for all of us.