Nanaimo track athlete Jason Clare was honoured with the Don Long Bursary at the official Operation Red Nose kickoff event at Nanaimo North Town Centre Friday.
The award, for outstanding sport and community commitment, was created in 2006 to honour long-time Operation Red Nose volunteer Don Long and a $500 bursary is awarded every year to an athlete that demonstrates commitment to sport, as well as the community of Nanaimo, said a press release.
Clare is the top-ranked Canadian youth (16-17 years old) in pole vault and took gold at the 2015 Canadian Youth Track and Field Championships, vaulting 4.5 metres. In addition, he received the MVP award in 2015 as a member of the Nanaimo District Secondary School track and field team.
Operation Red Nose, now in its 20th season, provides holiday revellers a ride home during the Christmas season, with all proceeds going to benefit PacificSport Vancouver Island.
“Jason is an exceptional athlete, an honour roll student and gives back to sport by coaching young athletes,” said Kevin Lindo, athlete and coach services coordinator at PacificSport Vancouver Island. “PacificSport is proud to award this bursary to such a well-rounded young man.”
The campaign runs every Friday and Saturday evening beginning Nov. 27.
For more information, please go to www.pacificsportvi.com.