Volunteer Of The Month - Presented By Kokatat

Todd Schindler:   Louisville Ironman Swim Safety Coordinator

 

As an avid boater and active member of the Viking Canoe Club in Louisville, KY, Todd Schindler's largest contribution to the whitewater community is his volunteer work with Louisville Ironman.  Every August, since 2007, Todd directs over 130 volunteers in kayaks and other watercraft to provide safety support for typically 2800 athletes during the first leg of the Ironman triathlon, a 2.4 mile swim on the Ohio River in Louisville.  This event is one of the qualifiers for the Ironman Championship held in Kona, Hawaii.

 

Proceeds from this event are donated to American Whitewater.  This is a great example of how supporters of AW can come together, have fun, and raise money to support river stewardship.

 

When asked what keeps him coming back, Todd's answer was, “I do the drill for American Whitewater and the chance to have a key role in such an amazing display of the human experience.  There are so many stories in that field of athletes.  Some are blind, some beat cancer, many have heart conditions, and two participants got married this year after the finish!”

 

If getting on the water, being inspired by world-class athletes, and supporting American Whitewater sound like a great way to spend the day, look up Todd Schindler and the Viking Canoe Club in mid-August for Ironman Louisville.