It’s the 4th year for the Humboldt and District T1D Team’s 4x4x48 Ultra Marathon event coming up on Friday May 31 and running to Sunday June 2. Jason Holtvogt will once again be in the thick of the event, running with other members to raise funds for diabetes research. 

The T1D 4x4x48 event is inspired by ultra-marathoner David Goggins. The idea is to run 12 four-mile races every four hours for 48 hours. Supporters can join Holtvogt and run, walk or bike any part of the weekend long event. The funds raised go to DRIFCAN, a philanthropic research organization based in Edmonton, whose mission is to end Type 1 Diabetes.  

“Since we started in 2021, we’ve raised over $160,000 research going to DRIFCAN,” Holtvogt explains. “DRIFCAN gives money directly to research being done by Dr. James Shapiro at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. He is currently working on stem-cell research for curing both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.” 

Holtvogt explains that Dr. Shapiro’s technique involves removing stem cells from the patient, processing them over a period of 45 days, and reintroducing them to the patient.  

“He’s going to be starting human trials within 12 to 18 months, but he needs funds,” Holtvogt said. “Each one of the machines that processes the stem cells costs a couple hundred thousand dollars. The good thing is that DRIFCAN has only one employee, so 90 percent of the money goes directly to Dr. Shapiro and his research.” 

The marathon launches with another incredible fundraising event, the ever popular Dine and Dash, that’s sure to draw an enthusiastic audience.  

“We reached out to Aussie Rules Duelling Pianos out of Calgary. They only come to TCU Place once a year, but they are coming out to our event this year as well.” 

The duo operates its own bar in Calgary, Holtvogt says, and plenty of people have talked to him about the high energy show. It’s all part of the Friday night, May 31 package with a meal catered by Johnny’s Bistro and a live auction with tons of wonderful donations. An onsite silent auction will take place at the banquet and a Facebook auction goes on all weekend.  

As well, Humboldt Special Olympics will be handing out coffee and muffins courtesy of Tim Hortons on Saturday morning. Saturday evening is a family favourite, the Superhero Run. Participants can dress up as their favourite superheros and join Jason on this inspiring leg of the weekend. 

There’s fun for all, and all for a great cause. Tickets for the Dine and Dash are available by clicking the link: Dine & Dash Diabetes Fundraiser Tickets, Humboldt | Eventbrite. 

To register for the T1D 4x4x48 run click on the link: 2024 — T1D 4x4x48 — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising.