Posted: August 9, 2004

Athletics: Illinois Valley Striders Establishes "Tim Broe Olympic Fund"

PEORIA, Ill. - (August 3, 2004) - The Illinois Valley Striders Board of Directors authorized the creation of the "Tim Broe Olympic Fund" at its monthly meeting Tuesday, August 3. The purpose of this fund is to ensure Diane Broe, Tim's Mother, will share in her son's Olympic experience. Tim Broe will represent the United States Track and Field Team in the 5000 meters at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. The 5000 meter qualifying heats will be run on Wednesday, August 25 with the Finals to be run on Saturday, August 28.

Contributions to the fund will cover travel, accommodations and ticket costs. Anyone wishing to contribute to this fund should send checks payable to:

"IVS Tim Broe Olympic Fund"
c/o Dr. Clifford Brown, Treasurer
Illinois Valley Striders
211 Wolf Road
Peoria, IL 61614

"Based on his current form, Tim has an excellent shot at making the Olympic Finals," says Ed McGraw, IVS Co-Founder and Tim Broe's high school coach. "It's very appropriate for Tim's Mom to join him in Athens. She has been his strongest supporter through all of the ups and downs in his running career."

A graduate of East Peoria Community High School and the University of Alabama, Tim Broe is a six-time USATF National Champion; the 2002 Steamboat Classic Champion; the 2000 NCAA Steeplechase Champion and a four-time Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Champion. In 2002, he set the U.S. Record for the Indoor 3000 Meters (7:39.23). Tim has been a member of the Illinois Valley Striders since he began running competitively in high school.

Founded in 1974, the mission of the Illinois Valley Striders is to promote running fitness as a life sport while striving to enhance the community. IVS serves its members, the running community, and the community at large through its active involvement in programs, events and organizations/issues that satisfy this mission.