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<div>In 2005, Canadians Gary Mark, Jeremy Perceval, Cal Yuen, and Richard Nourse (based in the UK) launched a global fundraising effort to install a park bench in honour of Ray Bethell. With support from the British Columbia Kitefliers Association (BCKA), and an early contribution in 2006 from the late Corey Jensen, the campaign was a success.
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<div>Today, the Ray Bethell bench remains in Vanier Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, commemorating Ray’s legacy. Vanier Park was his home field and favourite place to fly. The bench bears a plaque that reads: “In honour of Ray Bethell, master multiple kiteflier. From your friends &amp; fellow kitefliers worldwide. May the wind remain beneath your wings.”
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<div>In 2017, the community once again came together, raising the necessary funds within days to renew the bench’s maintenance contract.
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<div>That contract is now up for renewal. <strong>$9,000 must be raised before July 31, 2026, to preserve the bench and its plaque for another ten years. Without renewal, the plaque will be removed.</strong>
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<div><strong>For Ray’s family, friends, fellow kitefliers, and admirers, we ask you to consider contributing to ensure this tribute remains in place for years to come.</strong>
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Ray Bethell Commemorative Bench Renewal

John Barresi

<div>We are honored to represent the United States as Team USA Sportkite at the 2026 World Championships—a dream and responsibility we carry with pride, passion, and purpose.

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<div>Our team is dedicated to showcasing the artistry, precision, and athleticism of choreographed kite flying on the world stage. As official 2026 representatives, we aim to elevate the sport through creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to excellence and sportsmanship.

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<div>Beyond competition, our mission includes mentoring the next generation of flyers, building community, and inspiring audiences around the globe through this unique and powerful performance art.

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<div>To make this journey possible, we’re seeking your support. Every donation—large or small—helps cover travel, gear, uniforms, and team expenses as we prepare to fly for Team USA. If you believe in passion, performance, and the power of flight to bring people together, we invite you to be part of our story.

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<div>********* IMPORTANT *********
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<div>When you take the steps to donate below, GoFundMe automatically cues up a 15% tip to them on the donation - you're more than welcome to do this but you can also move the tip slider to zero, or any amount in between - a tip is NOT required to donate.
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<div>You can also show off your support for us with official USA Sport Kite Team apparel in a variety of colors and styles, available via the link below!

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<div>---&gt; <a href="https://usasportkiteteam.printful.me/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>CLICK HERE TO BROWSE USA SPORT KITE TEAM APPAREL!</strong></a><strong> </strong>&lt;---

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<div><em>* The goal shown on this page will be updated as we receive donations in person, fan apparel income, and other fundraising efforts.</em>

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<div><em>* Any funds remaining after expenses will be rolled over to the 2028 USA Sport Kite Team.</em>

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<div>Thank you for helping us lift Team USA to new heights.

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<div>Scott Weider (captain)

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<div>Meshelle Sharples (co-captain)

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<div>Linzy Abbott

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<div>Katrina Bruland

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<div>Rachael Nikkola

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<div>Jesse Kapsten

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<div>Brett Marchel

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<div>John Barresi

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Support Team USA at the 2026 World Kite Cup

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John Barresi

John Barresi

What they care about

Featured causes

Support Team USA at the 2026 World Kite Cup

Ray Bethell Commemorative Bench Renewal

About me