For the past 12 years, the Relay For Life has been a significant fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society in Kelowna.
With interest in the event waning in recent years, the society has opted to end the relay and replace it with another event, the Daffodil Dash which will take place Sunday, April 24.
The society says Relay For Life participants and volunteers had been suggesting it was time for something fresh, innovative and fun as a new fundraiser.
The Daffodil Dash is a family friendly, timed event designed for runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels. The event truly has something for everyone – 1, 5 and 10 Km walk/run options, as well as a 100 meter “mini-dash” for the youngsters.
Post run fun will include entertainment, face painters, and a BBQ. As with Relay For Life, this event raises vital funds for cancer research, prevention and support programs for people living with cancer and their families. The event will kick off at Stuart Park at 9 a.m., with the BBQ running from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We are excited to begin a new chapter with this Daffodil Dash event in Kelowna,” said Lori Stevenson, revenue development team lead with the Canadian Cancer Society.
“We heard feedback from the community, including our dedicated and passionate volunteers, saw annual declines in participation and felt a need to reenergize the spirit of our signature fundraising event in Kelowna. We have seen this event be a success in other cities in British Columbia and are looking forward to bringing the festival-like atmosphere here.
"The Daffodil Dash coincides with our April Daffodil Month and when you purchase our fresh flowers, wear a daffodil lapel pin, give to one of our door to door canvassers or 'do the Dash,' you’re supporting Canadians living with cancer and helping us fund research to fight all cancers for all Canadians in all communities.”
“As with Relay, we ask participants to commit to raising a minimum of $150 for the cancer fighting cause, and those successful in that mission will receive a swag bag with local goodies and a great pair of daffodil knee socks they can wear on event day,” added Stevenson. “Get your yellow on – come up with a team theme – anything yellow goes!”
Registration for Daffodil Dash is open now at cancer.ca/daffodildash and you can sign up as a team or individual.
Early bird rate is available until March 1, but post a comment to our Kelowna Daffodil Dash Facebook event page about how your team will help spread the “yellow” at the Dash and you will receive a code to get the discounted rate until March 15.
As well, Stevenson noted the Relay For Life event in Vernon will continue this year, and participants from Kelowna are welcome to register for that event.