Bursaries

STEVE RUSSELL Memorial Bursary

Overview & Value

The STEVE RUSSELL Memorial Bursary is awarded annually in memory of former Kelowna Track & Field Club (KTFC) President, Steve Russell. This bursary aims to recognize athletes who best exemplify his giving, caring, and “be the best you can be!” philosophy. Steve tragically died while volunteering at a KTFC fundraiser, reflecting his deep commitment to the club.

  • Award: $500 for Post-Secondary Education.
  • Number of Awards: Up to two (2) per year—one female and one male recipient.
  • Use of Funds: Must be used within two years of high school graduation.
  • Limitation: Athletes can only be awarded the Steve Russell Memorial Bursary once.

Eligibility & Application Deadline

  • Eligibility:
    • Graduating high school athletes.
    • Must be an athlete in good standing with the club (i.e., no outstanding fees).
  • Deadline: Completed applications must be received by the manager on or before Friday, May 1st, 2026.
  • Submission: Please email completed applications to manager@okac.ca.
  • Verification: The selection committee may request proof of registration at a recognized post-secondary institution from applicants.

Selection Process

Recipients are traditionally selected by the senior coaches of the Kelowna Track & Field Club, who are best positioned to know the abilities and personal qualities of the graduating athletes they have worked with over a number of years.

The Selection Committee will consist of the senior coaches and two members of the KTFC executive.

Application Requirements

Your application must include responses to the following four points:

  1. Essay: Write a 200-300 word essay on how track and field has influenced your life.
  2. Community Encouragement: Include what you have personally done to encourage others in the community, your school, and the club to participate in track and field.
  3. Mentorship & Role Model: In what ways have you been a mentor and role model for the younger kids in the club?
  4. Club Volunteerism: Describe your volunteer time that you have put into the club’s bigger picture, specifically detailing your involvement in the Jack Brow meet and other initiatives the club is trying to incorporate in its goals and mandates.

Mike Passmore Memorial Bursary

Overview & Value

The Mike Passmore Memorial Bursary was initiated by the Kelowna Track & Field Club, in conjunction with Mike’s parents, Bob and Pat Passmore, and is proudly carried on by the Okanagan Athletics Club (OAC).

The bursary is in memory of Mike Passmore, a former Kelowna Track & Field Club member who was an outstanding and passionate middle distance and cross-country runner. He achieved honors competing for Okanagan University College and Simon Fraser University before his premature passing at age 26.

  • Award:
    • OAC Membership Fee for one year.
    • BC Athletics Fee for one year.
    • One Singlet (if required).
  • Limitation: Athletes can only be awarded the Mike Passmore Memorial Bursary once.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Mike Passmore Memorial Bursary, athletes must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Grade Level: Must be a Grade 6 or 7 student.
  • Dedication: Demonstrates a high level of dedication and motivation in cross-country running.
  • Character: Displays a positive attitude, outstanding citizenship, and a strong sense of fair play.
  • Motivation: Is motivated to continue developing as a middle distance/cross-country runner.

Selection Process

The recipient of the award will be decided by the Cross Country/Middle Distance Coach and the Head Coach of the club.