Suffolk gym sets blood drive

Published 10:50 pm Wednesday, September 17, 2014

World Class Gymnastics Too in Suffolk will raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network and honor a former coach through a blood drive this weekend.

The CMN fundraiser will be part of the 16th annual National Gymnastics Day on Saturday, a day that USA Gymnastics sets aside to give acclaim to the sport.

Nicole Marshall, manager and head coach of the World Class Gymnastics Too gym, said plans were made earlier this year for the big day so the gym could raise money for USA Gymnastics’ charity of choice.

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“We want to give everyone the opportunity to celebrate the great sport of gymnastics, while raising funds to benefit less fortunate children,” she said.

From 1 to 4 p.m., the facility at 1000 Bowen Parkway will offer an open gym to the community at a cost of $5 an hour per child.

During that time there will also be a 50/50 raffle and a bake sale, featuring cookies, brownies and cheesecake bites.

Marshall said all proceeds from Saturday’s event will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network.

The blood drive will take place on Friday from 2 to 7 p.m. in a mobile unit parked behind the gym. This drive honors coach Joe Bystrom, who died of leukemia.

“He had a really positive impact on many of the gymnasts’ lives,” Marshall said.

To schedule a blood donation, visit www.redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “WorldClass.” Otherwise, call 1-800-733-2767.

All who donate will receive a “free haircut” coupon from Sports Clips and a free “Open Gym” pass.

For more information about Friday and Saturday’s event, contact the World Class Gymnastics Too gym at 488-5050.