Gals Compete in their 13th Max Performance Title 9 Triathlon

September 21, 2021

On Sunday, September 12, 2021, The Gals for Cal triathlon team tackled its 13th annual Max Performance Title 9 triathlon raising funds and awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Jett Foundation.

The Gals for Cal triathlon team began in 2009 with one mom, Cindy Quitzau and her son Cal, who was diagnosed with Duchenne 13 years ago. She wanted to challenge herself and challenge Duchenne while raising funds and awareness for Jett Foundation and the families we serve.

The Gals for Cal team has grown from 10 friends and family that first year to well over 150 women over the past 13 years. This is a very special year to be a Gal, as Jett Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary and Cal will celebrate his 20th birthday this November. The Gals have expanded from one mom honoring her son, to a national community of women impacted by Duchenne. Race day was full of emotions as each Gal crossed the finish line, and the “Go Gal!” cheers could be heard for hours.

Alongside 40 gals, this year, eight moms in the Duchenne community raced and/or raised funds in honor of their sons impacted by Duchenne: Cindy Quitzau, Amanda Becker, Lisa Shortlidge, Kristen McGourty, Michelle Parker, Stacey Santiago, Lori Safford, and Annie Ganot.

Moms Annie Ganot, Cindy Quitzau, Kristen McGourty, Michelle Parker, Amanda Becker, Stacey Santiago, and Lisa Shortlidge.

“This was the 13th Gals for Cal triathlon and what a day it was,” said Cindy Quitzau. “Thanks to dear friends of mine who came up with the idea back when Cal was diagnosed with Duchenne, this incredible event has continued year after year ever since with astounding support! We are proud to continue to race each year in support of Jett Foundation’s impactful programs.”

The Gals for Cal’s dedication to the Duchenne community has resulted in nearly $700,000 raised since their founding, which has provided vital support to Jett Foundation’s mission of improving the lives of children and young adults impacted by Duchenne. This year alone, the team has raised over $40,000 in support of Jett Foundation programs like their summer camp for kids and adults impacted by neuromuscular disorders, their financial assistance programs for emergency help and accessible vehicles, educational programming, and more. A big contributor to this success: our team sponsor, Solid Biosciences and the company’s Co-Founder, Annie Ganot.

Ashley Kelliher and Cindy Quitzau crossing the finish.

For the past several years, Annie has recruited her friends and family near and far, and this year she has also welcomed 15 of her colleagues from team sponsor Solid Biosciences, where she serves as Co-Founder, VP, Head of Patient Advocacy.

“I am incredibly proud to be a Gal and participate in honor of my son, Eytani, for my 6th year and to be joined by so many members of the Solid community at this year’s race,” said Annie. “The awareness and financial support that has been raised by the Gals over the years is vitally important to further the Jett Foundation’s efforts to improve the quality of life for all patients living with Duchenne. Solid is a proud supporter of the Jett Foundation, and we are thrilled to continue our support through the Gals for Cals.”

We are so grateful to Solid Biosciences and our team of Gals for their incredible efforts this year! You can still support the team in honor of Jett Foundation’s 20th anniversary and Cal’s 20th birthday: donate here.

If the Gals inspired you, consider joining a Go! for Duchenne event in 2022. Learn more at jettfoundation.org/goforduchenne.

Annie Ganot and son, Eytani, crossing the finish.

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Your gift helps Jett Foundation provide programming and opportunities, such as Camp Promise, to many families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy each year.

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