Only its second year in existence and Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Ponoka Youth Centre’s Race for Kids is already beating all expectations, bringing in thousands more than anticipated.
“It blew our goal out of the water,” said executive director Beth Reitz. The organization, its volunteers and race participants were aiming to bring in $25,000. However, once the total was calculated, it was realized approximately $28,000 had been raised.
All the proceeds of the race, which took place May 31, go toward the programming of the Youth Centre and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
“The money you raised stays directly here, it goes to this building,” Reitz told the 20 teams of four before allowing them to stampede through the start gate and off to their first location.
This year’s race included a vast cast of participants all looking for the top race time. Racers included a team of brides, dairy cows, Disney princesses and the Minions from Despicable Me, among others.
Participants, while battling the heat, were tested in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, driving heavy machinery, pushing a car, compete in a relay fitness race, belly dance and catch cheesy snack food on their heads.
“It was amazing. It’s our second year and we learned from last year,” said Reitz. “We’re really excited, we’re already looking forward to next year.”