VANCOUVER, Canada (January 2016) – The Sarah Burke Foundation announces the winners of its annual “Up and Coming Scholarship Awards” to Ava Dunham of British Columbia, Canada, and Maddie Mastro from California, USA. These athletes will receive a $7,500 grant from the Foundation which provides financial assistance to aspiring young athletes who have demonstrated personal excellence in their sports and communities. (http://sarahburkefoundation.com).
Qualified applicants had to be 18-years old or younger, compete in winter sports, exhibit consistent academic success, and a philanthropic spirit in keeping with that of Sarah Burke. Each candidate was also required to submit three personal references that could attest to the person’s good character and generosity.
The applicant pool exceeded expectations again this year. “The applications we received were incredible and we continue to be awed by the many people who Sarah inspires on a daily basis,” says Foundation President, Rory Bushfield.
The “Up and Coming Scholarship” Award Winners are:
Fourteen year-old, Ava Dunham, is a freestyle skier who lives in British Columbia, Canada. She is a member of the Freestylerz Team and the Whistler Freestyle Club at Whistler Blackcomb. She attends both Momentum and Spring Slayerz Ski Camps. Even at a young age, Ava has become a community ambassador, role model, and leader among her teammates and fellow campers. Through her work on and off the slopes, Ava exemplifies Sarah’s spirit.
Maddie Mastro is a 15 year-old snowboarder out of California. She truly personifies Sarah by giving of herself, time, and attention, to her teammates and younger athletes. Maddie is a determined athlete who is a role model and works hard to achieve her dream to represent the United States at the Olympics in halfpipe.
We are proud to support these athletes as they work to achieve their dreams.
About Sarah Burke
Sarah Burke was an inspiration, a humanitarian, and a shining example of athletic excellence. Remembered for her brilliant heartwarming smile, her heroic feats on the ski slopes and her tireless championing of the underdog, Sarah’s spirit continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew, admired, and loved her. For more information, please visit http://sarahburkefoundation.com.
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