Enterprise founder Jack Taylor believed in having fun and giving back to the local communities where employees live and work.
After Jack passed away in 2016, the Ireland Operating Group looked to pay homage to his philosophy. At the top of their list: an annual run, bike and swim – all to benefit a local non-profit.
And with that, the annual Jack Taylor Memorial Triathlon headed to the start line.
Gearing up for the race
“As a team, we wanted to come together to celebrate Jack’s tremendous leadership and the legacy he left behind, all while giving back to our local community,” says George O., General Manager.
George says the triathlon mirrors Jack’s values so it was a perfect fit to keep his legacy alive and well in the Ireland Operating Group.
“Competing in a triathlon is hard work and good fun – the same core principles Jack embraced and which allowed him to create this incredible company as we know it today,” says George.
The inaugural Jack Taylor Memorial Triathlon kicked off in 2017 in Portlaoise, Ireland with Adrian C., Risk Manager, helping with logistics to get the event up and running.
The 2017 triathlon raised more than €1,000 benefiting LauraLynn, a hospice for children with life-limiting conditions and residential care for young adults with disabilities.
Throughout the year, the Group fundraised for the organization, often holding sporting and team endurance events. By the end of the year the Group raised more than €14,000 for LauraLynn.
Continued success
In its second year, Ireland employees again embraced the Jack Taylor Memorial Triathlon – two relay teams and two individuals participated in the April event in Portlaoise. A familiar face also participated in this year’s event – George’s daughter, Stephanie. She was just six years old when she played a role in Enterprise’s 50th anniversary video talking about Jack Taylor’s values. Now 16, Stephanie is living out those values by participating in the triathlon.
For 2018, employees selected Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, as beneficiary of the event. The Group raised more than €1,000 at this year’s triathlon and combined with their other fundraising events, they expect to contribute a similar donation to Dogs Trust.
George has immense pride for his Group’s achievement and commitment to the triathlon.
“Jack was an inspiration in how he created an organization that continues to provide opportunity for hard working employees. I’m thrilled our Operating Group can honor him through this event, and I hope to see the Jack Taylor Memorial Triathlon live on for many years to come.”