The Amazing Backcountry Race for STARS has concluded for another summer, and with the help of a pair of Cochranites, the effort raised $19,300 for the non-profit, air search-and-rescue outfit.
Cochrane residents Susan Lewis and Jolene Airth participated in the race, raising $2,020 for STARS.
The race is an annual event that raises money to help STARS and involves numerous horseback riders who search through Alberta’s backcountry looking for hidden caches, which can be found at various locations. Riders employ the use of a GPS unit to assist with their search and garner pledges from sponsors to raise money for the cause.
“We call it a race,” said Brenda Murdock, who helps organize the event, “but really all people have to do to win is raise money for STARS.”
The race takes place in the Kananaskis area, and participants start their search at the end of June for what was a total of 18 caches spanning a distance of 460 kms and stretching to the Wilmore area.
Eighty-six people from throughout the province took part in the event, and pledges far exceeded the $5,000 they anticipated raising.
Lewis was part of the team, ‘Carpe Diem,’ that raised the most money for STARS, totally $4,740.
Anyone who would like to be part of the 2013 Amazing Backcountry Race for STARS, either as a sponsor or rider, can contact Brenda Murdock or Scott Phillips at [email protected].
