They came, they climbed, they conquered Grapes of Wrath – Prince Edward County’s extreme romp and stomp and all for a great cause.
On Saturday, 340 participants braved the wet and muddy terrain full of insurmountable obstacles at Hillier Creek Estates Winery, in an effort to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society along with the Trenton Memorial and Prince Edward Hospital foundations.
All funds raised go to help local cancer research and initiatives.
Cancer Society Spokesman Brad Warner praised the weather, as forecasted thunderstorms held off to allow 70 teams to take to the course that was designed by current and ex-military professionals, local volunteers, firefighters and hardcore runners.
The course was everything it promised, testing the runners’ resilience, strength, stamina, camaraderie and mental toughness.
Rochelle Heudes, Commanding Officer of 24 Canadian Forces Health Services in Trenton (one of the teams instrumental behind building the course) said it was a tough run but the fun she had with her 12 member team definitely outweighed the challenges. Heudes who also sits on the TMH Foundation Board explained she does it because it’s for a great cause but like so many others unfortunately cancer has touched her family.
Volunteer Teresa Fisher has stood proudly watching and assisting the participants for all three years.
“It’s so much fun and great to watch people challenge themselves, get muddy and enjoy it while raising funds for a great cause,” she smiled.
Fisher who is battling cancer herself praised the run as near and dear to her heart.
Stay tuned for fundraising and run results!
After final numbers were counted, $60,000 was raised, passing last year’s $50,000.