Squamish Olympian Darren Gardner was one of seven people honoured with a spot in the RBC Race for the Kids' Hall of Heroes recently.
Gardner, who competed in snowboarding at the 2018 Winter Games, has taken part in four of the race events, which raise money for children's charities, including the BC Children's Hospital.
"RBC has given me this platform to give back in the community and it's something that's super important to me," Gardner said. "The B.C. Children's Hospital, there's nothing more important than helping kids."
At the most recent race in June, he helped organize warmups, hand out awards, sign autographs and take pictures.
"This year, we got some of the families [who have had kids at the BC Children's Hospital] to do the warmups with us," he added. "That's pretty fun and rewarding for me."
The Hall of Heroes induction, meanwhile, belongs to everyone who helps with the event, he said.
"I'm super honoured, of course. It's the whole team around this event that makes it special. I hope they're getting more credit than I am," he said with a laugh.
Both live and virtual races happen in cities around the world every year, each benefitting local children's charities or hospitals. In 10 years, the event has raised $100 million, a milestone that prompted RBC to create the Hall of Heroes.
"From creative fundraisers to behind-the-scenes planners to Olympian volunteers, these seven individuals share an incredible passion and have had a lasting impact on the success of RBC Race for the Kids across the globe," said Andrea Barrack, of RBC, in a release. "The RBC Race for the Kids Hall of Heroes is our way of putting the spotlight on these inspirational leaders, showcasing the stories of those who have helped us achieve $100 million in fundraising to support youth charities worldwide."
On top of giving back as an Olympian, Gardner is also in the process of becoming a fire fighter.
"I'm working for Vancouver fire—but in a recruitment class. I have four more weeks of that nine-week program," he said. "I'm loving it so far. That has its rewards, too."
And, of course, there's the upcoming winter—and snowy mountains to look forward to.
"Garibaldi has snow on it. It's always an exciting time," he added. "I'm constantly looking at the webcams for Whistler."
To see the full list of Hall of Heroes recipients, visit rbcraceforthekids.com/heroes.
