In December, 2008, three world class adventurers, including ultra runner, Ray Zahab, legendary arctic explorer Richard Weber and elite adventurer Kevin Vallely will trek 1094 km., self supported, to the south pole in a goal of under 40 days. Dragging sleds of over 73 kgs. each, the team hopes to achieve what most are saying is impossible.

Most people are already aware of Ray Zahab's recent accomplishments - the most famous being running the Saraha (7500kms.) in 111 days. Ray's last challenge was in Canada where starting May 11th, 2008, he and a team of runners set off to run 80 kilometres a day for 13 days straight – through 13 provinces and territories - in an effort to inspire youth and raise awareness for the ONEXONE foundation!

Although preparations have been ongoing for months the South Pole Quest expedition team is set to begin on December 1, 2008 from Hercules Inlet on the Ronne Ice Shelf.

There are probably 3 reasons Ray is doing this. The first 2 are official. Number one is to provide an educational opportunity to many through an online module program. Number 2 is research into physiological changes during the trek to help better understand what it takes to survive in these conditions. Number 3 is the biggy though. I believe Ray just loves to do this stuff.

Ray has left wife Kathy and daughter Mia behind on Monday November 17 to begin the journey to the start point in Hercules Inlet. The team have set up a website ( http://www.southpolequest.com/) where you can not only find all the details on the undertaking but also follow their journey to the Pole.

We wish Ray and his team all the best in their all the best in their latest adventure.

Note: Ray Zahab was the guest speaker at Sportlink Sudbury's 2007 Guts and Glory 2 event. Ray will also be the guest speaker at the pasta dinner for the May 3, 2009 SUDBURYROCKS!!! Race, Run or Walk for Diabetes.

Click Here to Read Ray's Bio

Attendees of Sportlink's third annual Guts and Glory at the Radisson hotel were treated to not only a fine gourmet dinner but also 3 excellent speakers. Locals, Mike Hay, Tri -athlete and 2008 World Triathlon Masters Champion and Minna Mettinen's good friend and coach Thomas spoke first. Minna, founder of the Adaptive Rowing Program in Sudbury and Sudbury Rocks!! member was unable to attend due to complications with ALS. We wish her well.

2008 Olympic Gold Medalist in Men's Eight Rowing, Adam Kreek, spoke last and related the challenges and ups and downs on the road to excellence and ultimately a win at the Olympic level. He then spoke passionately about his deep caring for the environment and the effects we have on it. Adam states:

“As an elite level athlete who competes outside on an open body of water, the environment impacts me on a daily basis. Noticing the changes in seasons, the migration of birds, and the alteration of our lakes' and rivers' ecosystems over time has illustrated to me the interdependence of all beings. The health of these species directly reflects the health of our society. As an athlete who is trying to squeeze the most out of my body, mind and spirit, personal and environmental health become intrinsic personal values.”

Our Roots ...
Under the guidance of The Sudbury and District Sports Central, The Sudbury Region was a venue of choice for high profile sporting events, and a place for the development of several high profile athletes, in a variety of sports.

A Solid Future...
We are a not for profit organization comprised of several board members who are experienced in several domains including sport, media, event planning, volunteering and administration.

We are in place to revitalize Greater Sudbury’s sporting reputation and appeal by addressing needs based on research conducted in the community. Serving the needs of the entire Greater Sudbury community will result in meeting, even exceeding the success of the past. Join us in creating a strong sporting community!

One of our long time distance runners and a professor at Laurentian University, Les Davison, is finally retiring and will be moving to Scotland - at least on a part time basis.

The only proper farewell for a Scot would be at a pub and there will be an informal runners send-off party at Buzzy Browns Thursday December 4th at 7pm. Friends and runners who know Les are encouraged to come out and pass a pint with him.