Olympic Alternate Will Race for CASA in Wharf to Wharf

A Watsonville native and Aptos High graduate now training for the 2016 Olympics will be the honorary team captain for Team CASA, backing the Court Appointed Special Advocates in the Wharf to Wharf race on July 28. 

Brett Gotcher, 28, credited the support of his parents and sister for his success as a world-class marathoner. 

"I realize there are lots of kids out there who don't have that kind of family support," Gotcher said. "I understand the enormous impact a positive role model can have on a child's life. It's an honor to be working with CASA to help give every child the suppor they deserve."

Gotcher was an alternate on the 2012 Olympic team. He graduated from Stanford.

Gotcher and Santa Cruz Mayor Hilary Bryant, the honorary chair of Team CASA, will help inspire the team's runners and walkers at an event at Seabright Brewery in Santa Cruz on July 18. 

Both will compete on CASA's behalf in the 6-mile race from Santa Cruz to Captiola. Community members who want to support the children served by CASA can make a tax-deductible donation at www.casaofsantacruz.org and click on the Team CASA icon, whether they complete the Wharf to Wharf or not.