麻豆社区

Local folk and blues musician Gordie Tentrees was looking for a way to give back to the Whitehorse community.

After discovering the story of para-wheelchair racer Jessica Frotten in local newspapers, he knew exactly what he wanted to do.

With support from Selina Heylingers-Hare, the 39-year-old Tentrees will host a charity event for Frotten next month at the Old Fire Hall, entitled Speedraiser Concert: Songs for Frotten.

All proceeds from the event will go towards Frotten achieving her Olympic dream. The 25-year-old is currently attempting to raise $5,000 to buy a racing wheelchair and another $2,500 to attend an international race on the Switzerland circuit.

"I don't know her personally,鈥� the 39-year-old Tentrees told the Star.

"But I've been thinking for a while about something I could do in my community, because really, Whitehorse and the Yukon has been so supportive of me for many years.鈥�

Tentrees, who tours the world showcasing his music, recently decided that he wanted to give back to his home community with a benefit concert for an individual once a year.

"I was thinking of Jessica the whole time,鈥� Tentrees said. "Talking to her, I realized what a humble and amazing person she is. And I wanted to try and help. I couldn't have picked a better person.鈥�

Frotten's latest heroics on the track came at the Canada Summer Games in Sherbrooke, Que., where she won three bronze medals.

Since then, the Yukoner has set her sights on earning a position with Team Canada for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

The event is scheduled for Dec. 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Arts Underground, online at www.yukontickets.com or by calling 667-8574. Further donations will be accepted at the concert or online via www.indiegogo.com, where the name "Frotten鈥� should be entered in the search bar.

To date, local sponsors include Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters and Yukon Brewing.