MEDIA RELEASE

What’s more rewarding: making the journey or reaching destination? For triathletes who have participated in the ultimate test of endurance known as Ironman, the answer might surprise you.

There’s an immense sense of personal victory gained by those who break the tape at the conclusion of the 140.6-mile race. But the realization that every stroke, step and rotation of a bicycle tire plays a significant role in getting athletes closer to the finish line challenges the assumption that the destination offers a greater reward than the journey.

Indeed, those closest to Ironman know that the journey spans well beyond 140.6 miles, consumes more than just a single day and affects each athlete in a very unique and personal way. In 2001, Denver-based investment firm Janus brought an even deeper sense of personalization and fulfillment to this journey by creating the Janus Charity Challenge, a fundraising program that enables athletes add more value to their experience while enriching communities and lives.

Offering athletes the flexibility to raise money for the non-profit of their choice, the ease of online fundraising tools and tips, and the promise of additional donations from Janus to the charities of the top fundraisers, the Janus Charity Challenge attracted 57 participants in its first year and raised just over $500,000 for 40 charitable organizations.

Today, 10 years into its Ironman journey, the Charity Challenge has helped more than 1,000 athletes raise $40 million for 1,200 charities throughout the United States, suggesting that while completion of an Ironman is a life-changer, participation in the Janus Charity Challenge is a life-enhancer.

“When you think about those who benefit from the money you’ve raised, you can’t help but feel better about your race,” explains Jim Yanoschik, a ten-time participant in the Janus Charity Challenge who has collectively raised $4.3 million for two charities.

Athletes Steven S. Spitz and Mike Monroe agree. “[The Janus Charity Challenge] provided me with a higher purpose above and beyond my racing goals,” says Spitz, while Monroe insists that as a result of fundraising, “the race was much more rewarding and fulfilling.”

Since the Charity Challenge’s inaugural year, the numbers have steadily grown, and it is now Janus’ signature giving program. Even in the face of economic adversity, the program has made notable strides, attracting 254 participants in 2009 and raising more than $6.7 million for a wide variety of charities benefitting cancer victims, heart-attack survivors, the homeless, sight-impaired, paraplegics, diabetics and more.

While some athletes raise staggering amounts of money through the program, Casey Cortese, Assistant Vice President of Sponsorships and Community Relations at Janus, is quick to point out that, when it comes to fundraising, there is no amount that is insignificant.

“Any way you look at it, fundraising is a winning proposition,” she said. “It raises money and awareness for charities and it assures a deeper, more meaningful race experience for athletes.”

Anathea Powell, a two-time finisher at Ironman Coeur d’Alene and fundraiser for Doctors Without Borders couldn’t agree more.

“My experience with the Janus Charity Challenge has given me a new perspective on life,” she said. “For me, completing an Ironman is not just a personal goal, but an opportunity to contribute to something bigger.”

With more than $40 million raised since the program’s inception, it’s clear that, together, Ironman and Janus make a powerful combination. The same passion, focus and discipline that help athletes reach their destination help Janus uncover great investment opportunities. And when these qualities are directed toward fundraising, they have the potential to continue generating tremendous results.

To learn more about how the Janus Charity Challenge can enhance an athlete’s Ironman journey, go to januscharitychallenge.com.

For information on the diverse investment products and services offered at Janus, visit janus.com or speak with your investment advisor.

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