Muddy and wet stomp and romp raises $79,000 for charities

Saturday’s unforgiving rain just made the mud muddier for 420 participants in an inaugural obstacle race that raised $79,000 for three local charities.

Waylon Piggot

The Canadian Cancer Society, Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation and Trenton Memorial Hospital Foundation were the big winners in the first Grapes of Wrath Stomp and Romp Survival Race hosted at Hillier Creek Estates Winery.

A gruelling 5km course saw participants traverse rugged terrain to complete 14 obstacles designed and built by Canadian military volunteers.

“What an incredible adrenaline rush and I am not even a competitor”, said Hazel Lloyst, interim director of development for the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation. “The coming together of over 700 people – participants, volunteers and spectators all converging on a winery in the County in support of cancer care in our communities is both thrilling and heart-warming, to know that so many people care.”

The trek took in hills and valleys, splashed through winding streams and encouraged participants to overcome uncompromising obstacles and a complete lack of shame to sludge through dirt and mud all in the name of a good cause.

“I’m really cold,” said Waylon Piggot, of Belleville, the first runner to complete the course. “But I will definitely do this again next year. It was so much fun. I just challenged myself to support the charity. Somebody had to represent the security guards from BGH,” he laughed.

Prizes were awarded to the top fundraiser, top fundraising team and team with the most spirit.
·         Top fundraiser – $100.00 gift card to The Running Room – Linda Latchford
·         Top fundraising team – tour, tasting and pizza at Hillier Creek Estates – Running Stitches
·         Team spirit award – Subway party platters – The Dirty Dozen Minus Two

A look at the event: