Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record. In his pursuit of NHL immortality, Ovechkin is raising money to benefit pediatric cancer research.
According to a Capitals press release, Ovechkin is partnering with Hockey Fights Cancer and the V Foundation to launch the “THE GR8 CHASE for Victory Over Cancer.”
Starting with Wednesday’s game against the New York Rangers, Ovechkin plans to donate a dollar amount equal to his career goal total for every goal he scores for the rest of his professional career. Monumental Sports & Entertainment — who own the Capitals — are planning to match each of Ovechkin’s donations.
Ovechkin also has asked fans to accompany him on this cancer fundraising effort. He suggested fans donate $8 in honor of Ovechkin’s No. 8. According to the team, 100% of the donations will benefit pediatric cancer research through the V Foundation.
“I’m proud to join the V Foundation and support their efforts to fund lifesaving cancer research,” Ovechkin said. “Throughout my NHL career, I have met many brave kids battling cancer, and I feel it’s important to do what I can to help save more lives from this horrible disease. I want to thank the V Foundation for all their hard work, and I look forward to using my platform and doing anything I can to help further the V Foundation and Hockey Fights Cancer’s mission.”
The V Foundations was founded back in 1993 to honor Jim Valvano, a legendary NC State men’s basketball coach that passed away due to cancer. The V Foundations has raised an estimated $400 million for cancer research since its inception.
Ovechkin has racked up 884 goals throughout his 20 NHL seasons, which have all come as a member of the Capitals. The Capitals star has 31 goals this year, and he’s on pace to break Gretzky’s all-time goals record prior to the conclusion of the regular season. Ovechkin is only 11 goals from breaking Gretzky’s record with 21 regular-season games remaining on Washington’s Schedule.
Ovechkin has tallied five goals across his last five games for a Capitals team with the most points (86) in the Eastern Conference.
Alex Ovechkin, the star player for the Washington Capitals, is not only known for his incredible skills on the ice but also for his philanthropic efforts off the ice. Recently, Ovechkin has been raising funds for cancer research while simultaneously chasing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.
Ovechkin’s fundraising efforts began in 2017 when he launched the “Ovi’s Crazy 8’s” campaign, which aimed to raise money for various charities, including cancer research. Ovechkin pledged to donate $50 for every goal he scored during the season, as well as an additional $50 for every Capitals win. The campaign was a huge success, raising over $500,000 in its first year alone.
In addition to his fundraising efforts, Ovechkin has also been actively involved in raising awareness about cancer research. He has visited children’s hospitals, participated in charity events, and even auctioned off game-worn jerseys to raise money for cancer research organizations.
Despite his busy schedule both on and off the ice, Ovechkin has continued to excel in his hockey career. In January 2021, he scored his 709th career goal, moving him closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals. Ovechkin has made it clear that while breaking Gretzky’s record would be an incredible achievement, his main focus remains on raising funds for cancer research and giving back to the community.
Ovechkin’s dedication to both his hockey career and his charitable endeavors has earned him praise from fans and fellow players alike. He serves as an inspiration to many, showing that it is possible to excel in both sports and philanthropy.
As Ovechkin continues to chase Gretzky’s goals record, he remains committed to using his platform for good and making a positive impact on the world. His efforts in raising funds for cancer research serve as a reminder that athletes have the power to make a difference both on and off the ice.
