Over 200 students from grades four to six in Vanderhoof gathered for the 17th Ultimate Tournament on Oct. 1.
Nearly $1,200 in revenues from concession and entry fees from participating students were fundraised for the International Collaboration On Repair Discoveries (ICORD), an interdisciplinary research centre focused on spinal cord injury located in UBC, said Kim Worthington, one of teacher organizers.
Proceeds had been donated to ICORD in the past through the John Ryan Regeneration Fund — which no longer exists — as the tournament started in 1999 when John Ryan rode across the continent to raise awareness of a passenger, dying from spinal cord injuries, was not wearing a seat belt
As a fun game and good exercise for those who played the sport during recess and lunch breaks, the elementary school students have shown great interest throughout the years, said Cecilia John, a teacher sponsor for ultimate and learning support worker from Sinkut View Elementary Schools.
“They look forward to it,” John said.
For Jessica Neumeister, Gr. 6, this year’s weather was welcoming.
“It was iceberg cold [last year,]” Neumeister said.