Register your team now for Chilliwack's third annual Amazing Chase, taking place on April 30.
Similar to the hit adventure competition series The Amazing Race, teams of family members or friends will race around Chilliwack completing fun and exhilarating challenges to compete for great prizes and, of course, the bragging rights.
The annual event is organized by the family of Lilee-Jean Putt, in honour of her life and all children who have lost their lives to cancer.
Little Lilee-Jean lost her battle with brain cancer in September of 2013, after fighting for nearly two years. The race is inspired by Lilee's love to dance, play and be outside, rain or shine.
The Amazing Chase raises funds for paediatric cancer research at B.C. Children's Hospital. Participants raised over $4,000 last year, and organizers hope to raise even more this year by getting more teams involved.
Teams of two or more will begin the race around downtown Chilliwack by foot, then travel between various locations by car, finding clues and completing challenges all the way to the finish line.
While the challenges are accessible for everyone, there are two racing categories: one for more competitive chasers, the other is family-fun.
"We've had all kinds of teams," event organizer Jaime Braithwaite said. Super-competitive siblings, teenage friends, seniors and grandchildren, sports teams or club members - all are welcome to take part.
Unique team names and costumes are encouraged. Each team must have at least one driver.
Participants and the general public will enjoy a celebratory barbecue and party at the finish line, with music by Lilee's dad Andrew Christopher, prize distribution and more.
"I love doing anything that benefits the hospital, especially because it's been a huge part of my life," Jamie said. She met the Putt family in the hospital when her three-year old daughter Jaidyn was in treatment for leukaemia, at the same time as Lilee-Jean.
Jaidyn is eight years old and cancer-free today. She loves helping her mom and Lilee's aunt Carolyn Putt to organize the chase.
"Our main goal is to grow the number of teams," Jaime said. "Everyone that has been involved has a had a really good time. It's more than just writing a cheque."
Participants enjoy the exciting day of puzzles, teamwork, exploration and achievement even more knowing that it's for a worthy cause.
"It's great for the community as well," she added. Hosting unique challenges are a great way to showcase local businesses in a memorable way.
Organizers are still looking for a few more businesses to host challenges, volunteers to help out at each station, and prize sponsors to donate gift baskets or gift certificates.
"Chilliwack has been so supportive in everything for Lilee," Jaime said. "Even four years later, people still know her story. We want her legacy to live on."
Early-bird registration is $25 per person, or $15 for children, until April 5. Family rates are available. Teams are encouraged to raise additional pledges through their family and friends to further support B.C. Children's hospital.
The Amazing Chase takes place on Saturday April 30 beginning at 9:30 a.m., starting from the fire hall.
For more information or to register, email amazingchase2016@gmail.com. Registrants should include team name, member names, ages of children on team, preferred category, preferred method of payment and contact information.
