On Friday May 9th, a benefit concert was held at the Chestermere Rec Centre in conjunction with Hockey Marathon for the Kids.
Performances by country music artists such as Kira Isabella, Jordan Allard, Sarah Curle, Kaleigh Jo Kirk, Tuxton Mile, Mary Zilba and the Chemical Cowboys rocked the stage in front of a lively crowd of over 450 guests.
Fans of the Hockey Marathon for Kids came out to the concert dressed in their best western attire in an effort to cheer on and support the fundraising efforts of the 40 players involved in the World’s Longest Hockey Game, which was being held in the adjacent arena under the same roof as the concert.
Into their sixth day, some of the heroic players of the hockey marathon had the opportunity to pop into the concert while on their shift break to enjoy the music and to be a part of the energetic atmosphere.
“The concert was a huge success in our minds,” says event planner, Lesley Plumley, “The artists were all so very honored to be involved in such an amazing event.”
The primary purpose of the concert was to support the efforts of the Hockey Marathon for Kids event which is raising funds for both the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, Southern Alberta Flood Relief and Samuel’s Ride for Rescue.
Alex Halat, the Chair of the fundraiser as well as a player in the 248 hour long hockey game came up on stage to thank the guests for coming, explaining how much it meant to him and the other players to know they have so many people behind them. “This game has become a community event for all of us that are here. Each and every person that comes to the rink is a key part in helping the kids of the Alberta Children’s Hospital and we are thankful for your support.”
In between acts, there was a live auction which saw a car and a trailer sell for a total of over $20,000. A framed team photo of the hockey players also went for $1,500.
“This isn’t just a concert – it’s an opportunity to show how proud Chestermere is of these 40 men who have put their lives on hold to do this incredible endeavor,” said one Chestermere resident who was enjoying the event, “It’s so inspirational to see such selfless acts of courage from these guys, it’s just amazing what they have accomplished.”
The World’s longest Hockey Game is scheduled to be over on Wednesday evening, and they have a goal to raise $2Million. For more information or to donate visit their website at www.hockeymarathon.com.
