Banff's Outdoor Gear Leader Monod Sports Gets Involved With Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation

Banff, Alberta, July 5, 2012 – Monod Sports, Banff's original outdoor gear store, announced today its support of the Bow Valley's Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation. Created under the umbrella of the Bow Valley Community Foundation, The Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation was established in May 2007. The goal of the Foundation is to assist less fortunate children in the Bow Valley (mainly the Alberta communities of Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore and Exshaw) with gaining access to organized sporting programs.

Monod Sports is all about providing people with the best outdoor sports equipment and clothing for people of all ages. Because of the Monod brothers' family history and experience with Canadian and international ski racing, Monod Sports has developed an exceptional reputation with organized sporting programs in and around the Bow Valley. Having the privilege of growing up here in Banff, the Monod brothers developed a passion for outdoor sports, especially their love for skiing. The Monod brothers continue their family's life-long devotion to Canadian ski racing and know how important it is to encourage and help the next generation of not only junior ski racers, but all children interested in organized sporting programs.

"We feel this foundation is very important for the children and their families here in and around the Bow Valley. I was fortunate enough to have ski racing growing up, and I will never forget all the good memories of being a part of a team and the ski program. We at Monod Sports believe that no kid should be left on the sidelines and all should be given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports," stated Peter Monod, Part Owner of Monod Sports.

Although the Bow Valley is perceived by many to be affluent, there are many families struggling to make ends meet financially and unfortunately this means organized sporting activities are out of reach for their children. The creators of the Foundation, three Canmore residents, recognized an opportunity to create an endowment fund where assistance can be provided indefinitely to children in need. And when Monod Sports was approached with an opportunity to get involved, there was no hesitation.

To date, funds from Monod Sports to the Foundation have been dispersed to support the Sunshine Adaptive Ski Program, the Bow Valley chapter of KidSport, Canmore Minor Soccer, the Canmore Illusions Gymnastics Club, Canmore Minor Hockey, the Rundle Mountain Cycling Club, the Canmore Cohos Swim Club and the Banff Alpine Racers.

"We continue to look for other beneficiaries where a direct and significant impact can be attained… and thank Monod Sports for their generous contributions over the last few years," stated Michael Kuzik, Founder of Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation.

About Monod Sports
Monod Sports is an independent retailer specializing in men's outerwear, women's outerwear, and outdoor sports equipment. With company roots planted firmly in the beautiful town of Banff, Alberta, Monod Sports has always been committed to delivering top of the line sports equipment and knowledgeable customer service. This customer-focused approach and dedication to quality is what has allowed Monod Sports to flourish in Banff for over 60 years. The company is devoted to maintaining expert-level customer service for all of their products, which is why they currently sell their product lines exclusively from their Banff store location and their online sports equipment store.

About Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation
Rockies Ride for Kids Foundation was established in May 2007, created under the umbrella of the Bow Valley Community Foundation, The goal of this Foundation is to assist less fortunate children in gaining access to organized sporting programs in and around the Bow Valley.