CONDORS IN THE COMMUNITY: $33,000 RAISED IN FIGHT AGAINST CANCER: Relay for Life & Chris Kushneriuk get support from Condorstown

On February 22, 75 hockey players joined together to raise funds for Relay for Life of the American Cancer Society. Participants collected pledges and skated in multiple games at the SJCH Ice Sports Center. Condors alumni suited up for a special game at the Rabobank Arena and then put their jerseys up for auction.  The Condors current roster also got in on the action wearing specialty purple cancer awareness jerseys that were live auctioned after the game.

The event began nearly ten years ago when former Condors and Fog defenseman, Kevin Barrett, lost his mom to breast cancer. He started this event to honor her and help others fighting the disease.

On celebrating ten years, Barrett said, “I am very proud of what this event has become and the longevity it has maintained. The players and alumni who participate year after year and to the community who support us – Thank you. It was especially nice to have Sean Venedam and Chris Kushneriuk travel so far to join us this year.”

Also on Saturday, former Condor Chris Kushneriuk made his first return to Bakersfield since battling testicular cancer last year.  He participated in the Hockey-thon and the proceeds from his jersey auction along with sales of a specially designed “Krush Cancer” t-shirt went towards helping him pay off the staggering medical costs incurred. Kushneriuk was able to raise $7,800 with the generous support of Condors fans.

“What a tremendous organization that cares for their players,” said Kushneriuk of the Condors. “Thank you Condorstown for the amazing friendships and for all your continued support.”  In two seasons, the Condors have raised close to $19,000 for the young player.