There are now countless Yogathons and Yoga Malas around the world, and it’s amazing to see how Yoga has become such an effective medium to raise not just our own individual consciousness and health, but really the health of our communities and our planet. I am however, happy to note, that the first ever Yogathon; i.e. an event led by a group of Yoga Teachers from a community to benefit a charitable cause, was started right here in Vancouver, on Kit’s Beach in 2002.
Founded by Eoin Finn, a renowned Vancouver yogi and Maxine Druker, then a camp director for Camp Moomba, a summer camp for children impacted by HIV and AIDS, the original Yogathon included 108 rounds of Sun Salutations led by a group of Vancouver’s best yoga teachers and attracted a few hundred odd people.
Original Camp Moomba Yogathon + Blissfest, Summer 2002, Vancouver
In eight years, the event has grown to raise anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000 in funds to support the Camp Moomba and has attracted up to 2000 yogis moving their bodies and hearts in unison.
2009 Camp Moomba Yogathon + Blissfest
The tradition continues. This Saturday, July 24th will see the eight annual Yogathon + Blissfest for Camp Moomba unfolding at UBC in Vancouver and I’m so happy to be teaching as part of a line up with some of Vancouver’s amazing yoga instructors.
We’re expecting over a 1000 people, children are free. If you don’t come for the 108 minutes of a beautiful Yoga Mala, come for the awesome music – local bands include the amazing Andy Warren and DJ Lady Ra. There’s also great organic food and kids activities. Gates open at 9 a.m. and registration is only $30. Every cent of your registration goes directly to Camp Moomba, which is a summer camp for children impacted by HIV and AIDS from across Western Canada. To get inspired, check out this awesome video from last year. If you’re a yogi in the Vancouver area, we hope to see you there!
Namaste,
Yogue.
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