Jasper community initiatives will be getting a big boost through a major initiative by a Foothills organization.
The Spruce Meadows Leg Up Foundation — which backs education, amateur and grassroot sports, agriculture, community, and health and wellness initiatives to improve the lives of Albertans — announced the "Jump for Jasper" campaign on Sept. 4.
The campaign will see an anonymous donor contribute $490 per clear round across every International Ring competition at the ‘Masters’ show jumping tournament, which will feature 116 elite riders and 214 horses from 18 countries competing from Sept. 4 to 8.
"This week, as Spruce Meadows prepares to welcome thousands of fans to the ‘Masters’, we wanted to help Jasper, following the devastation caused by the recent fires... we hope, in making this donation, we are helping to write a promising future for this special town," said foundation chairman Terry French.
The $490 donation per clear round reflects 2024 being the 49th year that Spruce Meadows has been in operation.
Spruce Meadows defines a clear round as "when a horse completes the course within the time allowed [and] no rails were knocked down on the fences."
If every single round were to be deemed clear during the five-day tournament, the donor's contribution would total approximately $270,000. Alongside whatever hefty sum is accumulated, fans and members of the public are welcome to donate any amount they're able to as well through this link.
All funds will go directly to charitable causes, including the Jasper Community Team Society and Jasper Food Bank.
“The Leg Up Foundation is delighted to be teaming up with grass-roots organizations that make meaningful differences in the lives of regular citizens," said French.
During the ‘Masters’, the Spruce Meadows Leg Up Foundation will also be raising money for Veterans Association via the Unstoppable Fundraiser, as well as the Wings of Hope breast cancer charity, which will be the 50/50 charity recipients.
Learn more about the Spruce Meadows Leg Up Foundation here, and learn more about the 'Masters' including a full schedule of events here.
