Ten teams took part in the Root Cellar's inaugural Amazing Race for Hunger last year, raising a total of $35,000 for the organization.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
kking@medicinehatnews.com
Racers get ready, Medicine Hat’s Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub’s Amazing Race for Hunger is returning Aug. 19 for its second year.
Inspired by the Amazing Race TV show, the event is a unique way to generate support for the Root Cellar, while raising awareness of local food insecurity.
“We are so excited to be hosting this event again,” said Root Cellar executive director Melissa Mullis. “Last year’s event was an incredible success (as) we were able to raise just under $35,000. And with the increasing need for emergency food supports this year, we are hoping to raise the bar even higher to support local families in this unique way.”
During the event, teams comprised of two racers compete in a series of physical challenges spread across Medicine Hat and Redcliff.
Racers must be quick to both complete and travel between challenges, as a $4,000 cash prize awaits the first team to cross the finish line. But as well as battling against time and the limits of their own strength, racers must also overcome obstacles thrown at them by the public, who can watch the race via livestream or listen for live updates on MY96.
Hosted in collaboration with an array of local businesses and organizations, Mullis says the event demonstrates Hatters’ spirit for community and giving back.
“This is a large community collaboration that showcases local businesses and provides a fun day of physical activity and team work for a good cause,” she said.
Applications to participate in the race are now available on the Root Cellar’s website. The deadline to apply is May 1 at 4:30 p.m.
The entry fee for participants is $100, payable upon confirmation of acceptance. A limit of 20 teams will be accepted in this year’s race.
Those wishing to show their support without participating are invented to join in as a sponsor or volunteer. For additional information, contact the Root Cellar at 403-528-4313.
Mullis also encourages community members to show their support by tuning in on the day of the event to cheer on their favourite team or just watch the action unfold.
