It is all about the numbers.  Just ask any athlete heading to Beijing.  Whether it is the final score in a tennis match, the winning time in a triathlon or the perfect 10 on the balance beam, the smallest units of measurement separate athletes from the joy of victory and the agony of defeat.  There are numbers in the world of international athletic competition, however, that few of us know about. These numbers reflect the financial costs associated with representing our nation abroad on the international field of play.  America for Gold (AFG), which launched eight days before the start of the Beijing games, has set out to provide financial support to U.S athletes.  Along with its launch, AFG began “$8 per month starting 08-08-08.” 

AFG is committed to supporting able-bodied athletes and athletes with disabilities by taking the financial numbers game out of the equation and allowing athletes to focus on physically preparing to represent our nation in international competition.  As an organization developed by athletes for athletes, AFG aims to provide financial assistance directly to athletes through need-based grants for both the summer and winter games. 

“As an organization made up of current and former athletes, we fully appreciate the physical, mental and financial challenges our team faces,” said Kevin Montford, Founder and Executive Director of America for Gold.  “Most people don’t realize the incredible expense associated with participating at this level of competition. Our athletes in Beijing have been training for many years, and financial support is needed years before the medals are won.  It’s our goal to carry this burden for them as they prepare to represent our nation abroad.”

Each American athlete training for the Summer Games spends thousands of dollars annually preparing for qualifying trial events long before the opening ceremony in Beijing.  Depending on the sport, an athlete’s costs can range from $12,000 to $120,000 annually for equipment, travel, coaching, nutrition needs, event fees and transportation.  These expenses, coupled with the fact that most athletes train more than the average person works, make it hard for many to even take a part-time job. 

“We are going to apply the same determined focus and energy you will see on the field of play this summer to helping athletes succeed,” said Montford.  “We are asking individuals to consider making an automatic monthly donation of $8 to show support for our team. We want to demonstrate our support for American athletes who are not only role models but ambassadors for our country.”

Athletes who receive funding go through a thorough application process with several parameters, including but not limited to sport ranking, good standing within the appropriate governing organizations and an approved income-to-expense ratio.  In addition, each athlete that receives funding must “Pay-it-Forward” by signing up at least 25 new donors to the fund.  AFG is actively seeking major corporate funding.

To support AFG, one-time or monthly contributions are accepted.  Donations can be made online, by phone at 877-477-4488 or by U.S. mail. To learn more about America for Gold or to make a donation, please visit www.AmericaForGold.org.

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