Tri to Remember 2025

My name is Zachary Barchard, and for the second year, I’ll be competing in triathlon events to raise money for the Alzheimer’s society of Calgary.

As some may know, the treatment and care for those who suffer from all forms of dementia is a cause dear to my heart. In 2020, my family lost our rock, our fearless matriarch, or as I knew her, my Nana Alice. She was and continues to be a role model to myself and the rest of our family, and we remember her for the kind and compassionate, yet strong woman that she was. She suffered from dementia, and over time our family watched as her bright flame we all knew her to be slowly faded. I miss her terribly every day, but I find comfort in knowing that she will be never be forgotten.

We are far from the only family who have felt this pain and shared this burden of suffering. In Canada in 2024 alone, 8.7% of adults aged 65 or older have some form of dementia, that’s around 485,000 people. 485,000 people slowly losing their independence, their memories, and the things that make them who they are. 485,000 families, all going through the same terrible pain.

It is my aim to use this fundraiser to do my part in easing the burden of suffering that comes with dementia.

First established in 1981, the Alzheimer’s society of Calgary works tirelessly to help people impacted by dementia to live well by building community capacity to support them. All donations made through my fundraiser, will go directly to the Alzheimer’s society of Calgary.

There will be a draw to thank all those who have and will help me on this journey, and for your efforts in raising money to the benefit of the Alzheimer’s society of Calgary; following the conclusion of the chaparral triathlon on Sunday, August 10th.

The prizes for the draw this year will be:

Every 10 dollars donated will count as 1 entry into the draw, prizes will not be purchased using any donated funds whatsoever.

I am hard at work preparing for the races, and am incredibly grateful for the community of Calgary and its support in my mission.

Together we can support those in our community suffering from dementia, and help them live life to their fullest

From the bottom of my heart, thank you, and see you at the finish line!