Vermilion, home to all sorts of competitive, yet fun events

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The Race of Vermilion

Just like the teams on TV who race around the world, 40 teams will be dashing through Vermilion to be crowned the winner of a crazy, amazing race. But just how crazy is it?

“It is so much fun. Sometimes I wish I was not volunteering so I could join in on the fun,” says Candice to Josh Anderson, who is usually the coordinator, but is taking the season off to tend to her new baby. Even though she is regulated to the sidelines as a spectator and cheer leader, her enthusiasm for the race is evident in how she to the describes the event.

It’s very Vermilion to love winter, start your plans here.

“The entire community gets behind the one-day event, creating challenging tests of endurance, skill, talent or just dumb luck. No training is required and no skillset will make your team win. Yes, having someone on the team that can run, ski, jump or throw an axe is an asset, but team work is the most important aspect of the entire race.”

The event is hosted by The Good Life Institute of Vermilion, but businesses, organizations and clubs throughout town volunteer time and facilities for the teams to test their skills. Clues are left for the teams to find the next challenge. Last year, stations varied from axe throwing, pottery creations, yoga, dance routines, wiring a house and even dragging a dummy, while competitors are dressed as a fireman.

Let's back up. When I say dance routines…please, watch the video from 2018 to the very end to see just what I mean. That guy in a kilt, dancing like no one is watching, is the epitome of a winner. He put it all on the line for the team.

“I always like to see what the firefighter school at Lakeland College throws at the teams. Sometimes it’s dragging a fake body through a smoke-filled building, other times you are prying your way through a door,” says Josh.

There is no shortage of businesses offering challenges, so two circuits take the teams through town. While some challenges may stay somewhat the same, Candice and her team of volunteers keep it all under wraps, so there is no home-team advantage. Nobody knows which route they are assigned until the gun goes off and the Race of Vermilion starts.

Forty teams of four, 40 sites, 20 detours, two routes and a wrap-up party to announce the winning teams follows the race at the Vermilion Regional Centre. What an event.

“The community loves this race,” says Josh. “Gosh, we have fun in Vermilion!” And it has.