Event honors JT Townsend

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – JT Townsend's 27th birthday was Friday and what better way to celebrate it than with an exciting, active, weekend event in his honor.

On Saturday friends and family of JT Townsend came together for an unforgettable event as participants raced to solve clues at the "Checkpoint Challenge," benefiting the JT Townsend Foundation.

Participants tested their problem-solving abilities as they visit designated "checkpoints" at various destinations in downtown Jacksonville.

The event was in honor of JT Townsend, a young man who dedicated his life to helping others after sustaining a traumatic spinal cord injury in 2004.  

This year's event was kicked off on Friday, February 7th, 2014 to commemorate JT's birthday and the "Checkpoint Challenge" race was held the next day.

The event had opening ceremonies and teams were awarded prizes based on completion of challenges and incentives offered for those teams that raise the most for the JT Townsend Foundation.

JT's mom Carmen had a smile on her face the whole day.

"This is a wonderful day. Everyone is enjoying themselves and when I see the people, I see all the others we will be able to help," Carmen Townsend said. "I'm excited about the idea that we are still celebrating the birthday of JT Townsend."

Event organizer and director of the JT Townsend Foundation Judi Zitiello said the day couldn't have been any more special.

"He would be smiling. He would be so happy," Zitiello said. "He always smiled but he would really love this celebration."

The event ended with a post party held at the Jacksonville Landing with Checkpoint Challenge awards and LIVE music.