On Saturday September 10tt, families gathered in Prince Arthur Park to watch Huntingdon 4-H’s First Annual Zucchini 500.
The concept of such a race is that winners of the best-designed zucchini race cars have the opportunity to launch their veggie hot wheels down an inclined racetrack. The festive morning, which drew 51 participants and a crowd of spectators, raised money for Chateauguay Valley Career Education Centre’s (CVCEC) Habitat for Humanity Project in Ormstown.
Local Musician Stuart Burrows MC’d the event with flair. Trophies were awarded out to three age groups for best design and the top designers then went on to compete in the actual race. Multiple heats took place as the fans cheered on their favorite bedazzled vegetables. The recently constructed green and white 4H snack shack was also on site with members serving up drinks, popcorn and cotton candy.
Students of Chateauguay Valley Career Education Centre built the new Huntingdon 4H snack shack, and the idea to hold a fundraiser originated as a way to return the favour. The proceeds to the event will go toward CVCEC’s Habitat for Humanity initiative to build two, affordable family homes in Ormstown. “Giving back to the community, as well as teaching practical skills, is big part of what 4H promotes,” event organizer Audrée Gosselin explained.
Audreé came up with the idea to hold a Zucchini 500 from a family member who’d heard of the popular races. “It’s the first time we’ve done this,” she said. “But if you do an Internet search, you’ll see they’re happening all over!” With such great participation from the community, it was clear why. The bright green four-lane track was built specifically for the event and will surely be reused for years to come.
The Zucchini 500 took place alongside the Huntingdon Optimist Club Family Day in the park with bounce games, snacks and juice. The Huntingdon 4H also took the opportunity to hold a clubhouse dedication ceremony honouring their Garden Project Founder, the late Josina (Sina) Nieuwenhof. All in all, local families enjoyed a summery September day at the very successful event.
