Number 30
Ovechkin's "Gr8 Chase" Aims to Score Big for Pediatric Cancer Research
Featured Focus: Athlete-Driven Impact, Health & Wellness, Direct Financial Support
Scope of Impact: National
Capitals star Alex Ovechkin launched "The Gr8 Chase for Victory Over Cancer," in partnership with the Jimmy V Foundation, a powerful initiative leveraging his pursuit of the NHL's all-time goal-scoring record of 894 lifetime goals. Here’s the key information you need to know:
Ovechkin's Pledge: Starting March 5, 2025, Ovechkin has been making a donation equal to his latest goal total for every goal scored while he’s chasing Wayne Gretzky’s record — AND for every goal he scores throughout the rest of his career, too — with all funds benefiting the V Foundation’s pediatric cancer research efforts.
Matching Impact: Monumental Sports & Entertainment, the local broadcast rights holder for the Washington Capitals, is doubling the donation for each goal, amplifying the financial contribution even more.
Fan Engagement: Ovechkin and the Caps are encouraging fans to join in by making a small $8 donation (or more, of course) at v.org/GR8chase.
How could we not!? This campaign is a masterclass from one of the greats. Not only is maximizing the visibility and reach of his chase to break the legendary Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record, but he’s also using that momentum to raise money for pediatric cancer research. By coupling the two missions together, Ovechkin is turning a personal achievement into a collective quest for the greater good.
YOUR NEXT PLAY:
We’re stoked about idea of this campaign in general, but we might be the most excited about the triple donation mechanism. The multiplier potential between Ovechkin’s donation, the team’s match, and the call-to-action for the public to join-in should make this campaign a fundraising success.
This is an all-star move that can be easily replicated by anyone, regardless of your role in the industry. There’s always room to unlock new ideas, partners, and potential when it comes to fundraising. While Ovechkin and the Caps are still looking for more goals and more donations, we’d consider the Gr8 Chase to be a major WIN | WIN already.
The official Capitals’ announcement of Alex Ovechkin's "Gr8 Chase" campaign.
Information on the organization’s dedicated fund for pediatric cancer research.
The NHL community program behind the “Gr8 Chase” is a year-round partner of the V Foundation.
A cool user-generated dashboard tracking Ovechkin’s pursuit of his magic 894th goal, with a breakdown of stats by season.
Nonprofit organization Athletes Fighting Cancer combines education, resources, and communities for athletes at all levels facing diagnosis.
How Ovechkin’s campaign is giving hope to one local family affected by pediatric cancer.
