With temperatures dropping…calls are already coming into the Home Builders Association offices about the 2013 Ice Fishing Tournament! Event organizers are planning next year’s event to be held February 16th in Barrie.

Event co-Chair Shawn Still of Hedbern Homes announced, “We’re thrilled to let everyone know the recipient of this year’s tournament proceeds is Barrie’s Ribbons of Hope.” Still continued, “this is a team of cancer survivors which competes in dragon boat festivals raising funds for the Regional Cancer Centre.”

Over the 7 years of the Tournament, more than $154,000 has been donated to local charities including the RVH Cancer Care Centre, Habitat for Humanity, Seasons Centre for Grieving Children, Learning Disabilities Association of Simcoe County, Gildas Club and the Childrens Aid Foundation.

“Even last year’s forced cancellation due to extreme weather won’t keep us down!” says Co-Chair Mark Mulder of Northern Plumbing Systems.

“We still gave away more than $50,000 in prizes and donated over $20,000 back to the community!

The event, held on Kempenfelt Bay near the South Shore Community Centre is now in it’s 8th year and has boasted attendance as high as 870. Prizes valued at more than $50,000 have been awarded to those with the top 50 fish by weight.

“We’re so pleased to be part of this event!” says Sandra Ford, President of Barrie’s Ribbons of Hope. The group is made up of breast cancer survivors and is open to both men and women. They compete in Dragon Boat races around Ontario and have competed as far as Australia. Perhaps their greatest attribute, in addition to raising funds for cancer research and prevention, is the support given to each of the 50+ members from within the group of breast cancer survivors. The group, celebrating it’s 10th anniversary, will use funds received to further their community mandate and to offer a strong message of hope, inspiration and encouragement.

Direct Energy is once again leading as Corporate Sponsor for the event. “We’re so excited to part of the event for the 7th year,” says Sue Cerilli of Direct Energy and the final of the 3 event co-chairs. “Our commitment to the housing industry and this community is solid and this is another way we can make a difference.”

Registration is now open at a cost of $85.00 (including HST). Not only do participants get a chance to help a great cause – they get to compete for 50 prizes valued up to $50,000! Each registration includes a pancake and sausage breakfast, and lunch following the Tournament.
Registrations can also be made by calling the Canadian Home Builders Association office at 705-728-5030. Information on the event is available by calling the same number.

For further information:
www.icefishingbarrie.ca
www.barriesribbonsofhope.com