The Thanks Gilmore Campaign
Jacknife
When the sports fans of Jacknife saw Canadian speedskater Gilmore Junio give up his spot at the 2014 Olympics to allow teammate Denny Morrison to race (& bring home a silver medal), it offered a glimpse at sportsmanship and personal sacrifice that inspired our team, and compelled us to do something special for Gilmore himself to recognize him and his sacrifice.
Our idea was to fashion Gilmore a commemorative medal – designed by the team & custom-built, but as we wanted to allow other Canadians who had followed him to lend a hand too, we started an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign. Hundreds of Canadians came through, quickly raising the required money in 14 days and sending along messages of appreciation for the Gilmore.
We designed the medal to feature interlocking components of Western Maple burl, gold, and silver; a box of Canadian maple for display, and a leather ribbon with the names of the donors laser-etched into it.
With the help of a number of partners providing craftsmanship, labour, and materials, were able to have it ready for Gilmore’s visit on May 14. Gilmore met with the students of King Edward School in Kitchener, Ontario, where he was presented with the medal and told the story of his Olympic adventure.