Great progress has been made in the last 5 decades when it comes to women’s athletics. However there is still a long road ahead.
Gender gaps remain wide. More can be done to promote change. This month, in Napa Valley’s Wine Country, fans and supporters gathered to celebrate the landmark decision that gave women the equal opportunity to play sport.
“Passion and hard work make a great player, but the courage to get up every time you fall is what makes a champion.”
JEANETTE LEE
The recent Title IX Anniversary Celebration marked the 50th anniversary of passing the landmark federal civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any educational institution that receives federal funding. The presentation and luncheon were a real highlight of the weekend for V Foundation’s Annual Wine Celebration.
Sportswomen shared their compelling stories of triumph and courage.
Four elite athletes that have dominated the world of sport all have also courageously fought cancer. Olympic champion cross-country skier Kikkan Randall, former world No. 1 female billiard player Jeanette Lee, FISA world rowing champion and Olympic silver medalist Kate Johnson, and 4-time Olympian, 3-time World Championship medalist and 12-time U.S. National High Jump Champion Chaunté Lowe all spoke with the discussion led by Donna Orender, former president of the WNBA, PGA TOUR Senior Executive, and current CEO of Orender Unlimited. Thanks to generous sponsors like ESPN, Bentley Motors, The Estate Yountville, Stephen Silver Jewelry, Constellation Brands, Far Niente Winery, Robb Report and so many more.
The athletes all shared their personal journey of competing both in sport & in their health battle. It was a moving tribute to the strength of women. Their stories all met at the intersection of being women, accomplished athletes, respected voices speaking out about the fight for equality and amidst all of that… cancer survivors.
“Life is full of challenges and the attitude you choose to meet these challenges with determines whether you “dive” or “thrive.” Through a journey of 5 Olympics, I learned valuable skills that have helped me become an Olympic Champion, return to elite competition after the birth of my son and now battle cancer. As an Olympian, active mom and now a cancer fighter, I have experienced both the highs and lows of tackling challenges and pursuing excellence at the highest level.”
KIKKHAN RANDALL
The athletes each spoke of difficulties in the early days when entering sport and fighting disease. They also highlighted the positive steps they took to control their careers. Another spotlight was focused on the changes they have witnessed in the world of sport. Strong women can break barriers, move mountains and WIN the fight against cancer. These sportswomen competitors have paved the way for future generations.
The luxurious luncheon event showcased wines from some incredible female vintners as well. Held at The Estate Yountville, the food and the wine were spectacular. Women’s empowerment and highlighting the accomplishments of women were the overall themes. There was also much talk about supporting continued progress on the field of sport and in the field of cancer research.
Certain cancers have improved outcomes if the cancer is detected early. Good strategy in sport and in health are key to winning.
As research brings us all to a better understanding of how cancer develops, the V Foundation can help us to envision a new era of treatment where cancer prevention and early detection are all standard parts of an overall cancer treatment effort. 90% of deaths are related to metastasized cancers. So catching it at the earliest stages is critical.
“My first thought was, ‘I am going to leave my kids without a mother,’ Lowe recalled about her diagnosis. ‘My second thought was, ‘There’s no way I’m leaving my kids without a mother.’”
CHAUNTÉ LOWE
A 3-day signature event series, the V Foundation Wine Celebration, in Napa Valley, demonstrates that commitment, passion & giving are all a catalyst for positive change! From the Title IX luncheon to a gala auction at Nickel & Nickel Winery, to an Answer for Cancer Symposium and a Rock the V’ party at The Estate Yountville, the weekend was packed with fun and full of excitement.
The Annual Wine Celebration drew over 600 guests to enjoy Napa Valley’s Wine Country in support of such an incredible cause. Since the first Wine Celebration, The V Foundation has raised over $137 million for cancer research & related programs during these annual events.
This year they raised more than $6.5 million with proceeds supporting early detection research.
Title IX of the Education Amendments was passed into law in 1972, 50 years ago. This groundbreaking achievement changed the trajectory and shaped the future path for women athletes. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in federally funded education programs and activities. Videos of the event are being created now and we will post highlight reels this next week. Stay tuned.
The messages of the day were clear: Support women athletes. Buck the old status quo. Early detection is critical in the fight against cancer. See the change. Be the change. CHOOSE COURAGE.
