2008

In 2008, a new event was held in London over the Labour Day weekend. The 1st annual 'Amazing London Race' took people all around the city of London as they raised funds for “Mackayla’s Fight for Sight” and “Sunshine Foundation”. This event was held on Sunday August 31st, 2008 and Monday September 1st, 2008. Both days started and finished at Friday Knight Lights with teams departing early in the morning to explore London to complete their various tasks. The race was conducted in the same format as the hit CBS TV show “The Amazing Race”. Racers and volunteers were treated to a great breakfast served by the owners of Friday Knight Lights, Tim Best and Anne Marie DeCicco-Best (Mayor of the City of London). Without them this event would not have happened.

For this first race, 5 teams of 4 joined the launch of this new annual event. Between the pledges raised, the BBQ & Car Wash held at Rona Home & Garden (sponsored by Foresters Hope Branch) and the silent auctions at the finish line, over $2500 was raised for these two great causes. We had some amazing weather for the event and each team came with a lot of enthusiasm and a competitive spirit. Everything combined, helped make this the success that it was. Our winning team, “Red Alert”, graciously donated their grand prize winnings ($250.00) back to the two charities. The top fundraiser for the event was Jeremy Goulet, who raised a total of $507 and was awarded a trip to Toronto for his efforts.

At the Finish Line on Sunday August 31 and Monday September 1, we were entertained with live music from Ryan Starkweather & Jeff Shaughnessy. Also, on Monday September 1 we were entertained by the "Janis Effect" and treated to a very special performance with "Canadian Idol" finalist and Canadian Recording artist Aaron Walpole.