There is still time to get a team into the second annual Bed Races on Beacon — but with nearly half of the slots already filled, time is running out.
Sidney’s Rest Haven Foundation is bringing the races back again this August, after a roucus and fun-filled day last summer. Foundation Executive Director Brenda Hennigar says they have expanded the field to 30 teams this time — based on the demand from last year’s inaugural races.
Teams returning this year include the Island Health Red Riding Hood/Big Bad Wolf crew — as well as rivals TD Bank and the Town of Sidney. Hennigar says the good-natured trash talk has already started between the two, so the competition should be spirited come race day.
“The word is getting out about just how crazy it is,” she says.
New sponsors have gotten into bed with the the Foundation this time. Hennigar says radio station The Q is the event’s title sponsor and is giving away something called “Get in Bed with Ed,” where a luck winner gets to ride along with radio personality Ed Bain.
There will be activites for children, provided by Panorama Recreation, costume contests and more. The stroller races for kids will not be happening this time, Hennigar said, but there will be an obstacle course, face painting and other activities.
Last year’s Bed Races raised more than $20,000 for the Rest Haven Foundation and Hennigar says they hope to beat that amount. Proceeds go towards palliative care at Sidney’s Rest Haven Lodge.
Once again this year, the race takes place on Sidney’s main street, Beacon Avenue, between 5th and 3rd streets.
On race day, Sunday, August 16, the heats begin at noon. Hennigar says each team is guaranteed two races, facing elimination en route to the finals.
Everything is expected to wrap up at around 3:30 p.m., she says.
To find out more, or to enter a bed race team, email Hennigar at info@resthavenfoundation.com.