Unsung Hero: ‘Coach Dread’ helps Surrey seniors

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SURREY (NEWS 1130) – Congratulations to our Unsung Hero Aart Looye. Art was nominated for the award by Angela Lange.

Here’s what she wrote about Aart:

Aart is a 72 year old Masters swimmer and a triathlete who gives back to his community in many ways, including holding FREE swim training sessions every Tuesday and Thursday at the Tong Louie YMCA in Surrey. Aart is feisty (but also sweet), earning him the nickname “Coach Dread” amongst the swimmers he mentors (deemed the Uncoachables).

Without fail, twice a week, Aart volunteers his vast expertise to train swimmers and triathletes so they can excel in their chosen sport. His only reward is the friendship and the satisfaction of seeing people excel. Exactly two years ago, at the age of 70, Aart suffered a series of strokes which landed him in VGH, unable to move the left side of his body. Aart surpassed all expectations in his recovery and was soon back in the pool mentoring his swimmers and winning medals in swim meets, despite his limited mobility. He now takes the Handi-Dart to the pool or catches a ride, and needs assistance getting in and out of the pool, but he’s just as feisty as ever and shows no signs of slowing down.

Alpine Credits is acknowledging Aart with 500-dollars to say thanks for being an Unsung Hero. It’s also donating one-thousand dollars to the Ronald McDonald House Children’s Charity.

Everyone knows an Unsung Hero. Nominate yours now by clicking here and give credit where credit is due with Alpine Credits and NEWS 1130.

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