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Editor’s note: This article was originally published on The Inertia.
Backcountry snowboarder Nick Russell is raising money for Turkish earthquake victims, and he’s making sure they get as much of the proceeds as possible. Russell’s DIY fundraiser is designed to send every cent straight to the people who need it most, via Turkish Philanthropy Funds.
The Truckee, California-based rider is offering up two BelleTour setups from WNDR Alpine (including poles and skins). The 159cm and 152cm BelleTour splitboard packages both retail for $1,200. Russell announced the offer this week on Instagram.
On Feb. 6, a massive 7.8 magnitude Earthquake struck Turkey and Syria, followed by another large quake hours later. The destruction has killed nearly 50,000 people, with harsh winter weather making rescue and recovery more difficult. There have been thousands of aftershocks since, including a 6.3 magnitude tremor Monday that killed six. It’s the most devastating natural disaster in Turkey’s history.
“I decided to do this because there’s been a massive and tragic natural disaster in a part of the world often forgotten about, especially from the privileged wintertime tunnel vision we operate in,” Russell told The Inertia. “I had the chance to visit Turkey a few years back, and everyone we came across was some of the most kind souls I’ve ever met.”
Wanna get in on it? Direct message Russell on Instagram with the price you’re willing to part with for these beauties (the lower limit for both boards is $999). Russell will notify winners by March 1, 2023. To strap them to their skin-track-lovin’ feet, winners must donate the promised amount directly to Turkish Philanthropy Funds. Proof of donation is required.
“I won’t be handling any money,” Russell wrote. “Shipping not included, limited to U.S. only. Also feel free to donate directly … for good karma. Hopefully, we can raise some money to support those in need while also giving two lucky bidders a chance to purchase a killer WNDR Alpine splitboard setup. It’s a win for everybody.”