LEWISPORTE –Mike Austin, one of Lewisporte’s sports legends, is making history once again as he heads off to London, Ontario from July 12-17 to attend the National Special Olympics Competition with Team Newfoundland.
Sending competitors to competitions, especially at the national level and so far away from home, is certainly not cheap.
“It is not government funded so we depend on donations from different organizations,” said Norm Austin, Mike’s father.
The Co-op and Kinsmen Club of Notre Dame have come together once again to give a donation to another great cause out of the money raised from their 50/50 draw.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the members of the store,” said Lewisporte Co-op Store Manager Gord Head. “The money comes from the people of the town, we just channel where it should go. They should be proud.”
Both the Kinsmen Club and the Co-op agreed that this was a fantastic organization and a great way to give back to their community. The donation of $2,000 will go towards covering the expenses of the entire team.
“It’s important because it brings more awareness to the public,” said Kinsmen representative Mike Martin.
“It is a good organization to be affiliated with,” added Mr. Head. “Supporting our youth is a win-win situation.”
The Special Olympics Team from Newfoundland were extremely grateful for the donation and certainly appreciate the support from communities across Newfoundland.
“As a parent I am really appreciative of the Co-op and Kinsmen Club and the people of Lewisporte for everything they have done,” said Mr. Austin. “They aren’t just helping Mike, they’re helping the whole team.”
Mike has been training very hard for the much-anticipated national competition. According to Mr. Austin, he is beaming with excitement as well as pride to represent his community and province.
Mr. Austin said that Mike has repeatedly said, “If I win any medals it is for the people of Lewisporte.”
