The Inaugural United Way Torchbearer Trike Wars went off without a hitch as sponsors raced for the coveted championship! It was a great day of camaraderie and competition. United Way thanks everyone who took part and those who came out to show their support.
Teams from Torchbearer workplaces, those who have pledged $12,000 in employee and corporate donations, were eligible to compete. There were three heats, each with three teams in a three-person relay. Wes Samons helped teams get their engines revved at the starting line and CEO Meredith Egan flagged down the winners. The three fastest teams overall advanced to the final heat. Ultimately, Publix put their tricycle riding skills to the pavement and won gold. Notable teams included Dean Mead Minton and Moore, Gould Cooksey Fennell, P.A., Indian River Sheriff’s Office, Merrill Lynch, Northern Trust, and the School District of Indian River County.
“It was so much fun to be part of the tricycle race in our community,” said Troy Clemenzi of winning Team Publix. Followed by a statement from CEO Meredith Egan, “We had an amazing turnout of riders and supporters, and everyone was enthusiastic and encouraging. The community spirit was in full force, and it was an amazing experience for all involved.”
The Thank You Celebration and Block Party marks the end of United Way’s Annual Campaign and recognizes the volunteers, donors, workplaces, funded partners, and community for supporting its mission.
“The tricycle race was a fun and exciting event, but it also served as a reminder of how important it is to come together as a community,” said United Way Board Chair Jeff Petersen. “We can accomplish so much more when we work together, and that’s exactly what happened during the race. Everyone was cheering and pushing each other to do their best.”
Following the event there was a 50/50 raffle give away, music from Jessie and the Thieves, and a bounce house for the kids. Although the storms eventually rolled in, they didn’t dampen spirits. Teams, spectators, funded partners, and new friends of United Way continued the celebrations into the evening.
Thank you to the Grand Prix Sponsor, Gould Cooksey Fennell, P.A., and Pit Crew Sponsors, AMAC, The Hill Group, Offutt Barton and Schlitt, and Northern Trust. A special thank you to Emcees, John Moore and Jeff Petersen; Wes Samons for flagging down the winner. This event was made possible thanks to the venue hosts, Sailfish Brewery Vero Beach, Sol Mar, and The Cellar for donating their space. “Also, shout out to our racecourse designer, Alex Batt, because you know a racetrack is well-designed, when the trophy race has a lead change in the final lap to see Publix, our biggest single donor entity, win the day in dramatic fashion,” said Jeff Petersen.
2022-2023 Torchbearers include: Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, Publix Super Markets, IRC School District, Dean Mead Minton and Moore, Northern Trust, Gould Cooksey Fennell, Indian River Sheriff’s Department, Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, Bernard Egan Foundation, Florida Power and Light Company, Indian River County, Piper Aircraft, and Florida Floor Fashions.
About United Way of Indian River County
United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today, while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a strong foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, UnitedWayIRC.org.
