Ovechkin Launches Fundraiser While Chasing Gretzky’s Goal Record

NEW YORK — Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin announced Wednesday his partnership with Hockey Fights Cancer and the V Foundation for Cancer Research, launching “THE GR8 CHASE for Victory Over Cancer” to support pediatric cancer research as he approaches Wayne Gretzky‘s NHL record of 894 career goals.

Beginning with Wednesday night’s game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, Ovechkin will donate a dollar amount equivalent to his career goal total for every goal he scores for the remainder of his career. Monumental Sports & Entertainment, which owns the Capitals, will match his donations.

As of Wednesday, Ovechkin has scored 884 goals in his career, leaving him just 11 short of breaking the all-time record. The initiative, inspired by his pursuit of Gretzky’s record, aims to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research. The suggested donation from fans is $8, representing Ovechkin’s jersey number, but any contribution is welcome. The Capitals confirmed that 100% of the donations will support pediatric cancer research through the V Foundation.

“There is so much attention on the chase, so I’m using that to help. We should all help and make cancer go away,” Ovechkin said. “It doesn’t matter where you live, cancer touches everyone. It’s important for all of us to talk about finding a cure.”

The V Foundation, which has raised nearly $400 million since its inception in 1993, focuses on funding innovative cancer research. The foundation was established in honor of Jim Valvano, a Hall of Fame basketball coach who passed away from cancer. The V Foundation CEO, Shane Jacobson, praised Ovechkin’s efforts, stating, “This is a true power play. Alex Ovechkin’s summit to greatness on the ice has been a thrill for all hockey fans, and his commitment to funding innovative pediatric cancer research will make a lifesaving impact for years to come.”

Ovechkin’s 2024-2025 season has him currently sitting at 31 goals across 45 games, and he is on pace to eclipse Gretzky’s mark before the end of the regular season. The Capitals are currently leading the Eastern Conference with 86 points and have 21 games remaining to play.

Amanda Tischler, the Capitals’ senior vice president of marketing, noted that the campaign, which has been in development for several months, reflects Ovechkin’s long-standing commitment to community service and pediatric health. “The V Foundation shared concepts related to the GR8 CHASE and how we could really make every goal count for a good cause,” Tischler said.

Ovechkin, who has a history of charity work focusing on children, emphasized the significance of this cause, saying, “If we have a chance to help them, we have to take it.” For more information or to contribute to THE GR8 CHASE, fans are encouraged to visit the V Foundation’s website at v.org/GR8chase.