One of Cochrane's favourite signature events, the 18th annual Outhouse Races, is back this Sept. 29 and registration is now open for the fastest, funniest flagship poop-haus races. Businesses, non-profits, politicians and police will dress in bizarre apparel as they gallop, barrel and prance down Main Street at 10 a.m. in what has become known as the best time ever spent in a (portable) bathroom. Back with a vengeance in his endless mission to raise top dollar for worthy causes is emcee and host Dan Kroffat – retired professional wrestler, celebrity and philanthropist. The Cochranite's co-host for the event will be retired Stampeders running back Jon Cornish. Kroffat is particularly excited about the cause du jour: a fully-inclusive new playground at Centennial Park by Variety Alberta (the "red park" in the East End); the project is nearing halfway to its goal of $600,000 for the build. "I think this really gets into the heart and spirit of the community," said Kroffat, dubbing the project the "field of dreams" for the opportunity and sense of belonging it provides all children, regardless of ability. "And we're looking for challengers this year," he added. Kroffat put a call out to town council and Rocky View County council to square off and suggested it may be a perfect opportunity for restaurants or other competing businesses to tango. Mayor Jeff Genung, a 13-time Ironman competitor, said when it comes to competition: bring it on. The town's strategy to defeat county council - cheating, of course. "We'll probably pass a bylaw or a speed zone that the county will have to adhere to but we won't," said Genung with a laugh. "Run your potty off," joked event organizer Karrie Peace, also owner/operator of Historic Downtown business Heavenly Outhouse and Poor David's, adding that this year's cause is "pretty special." Peace said that their record fundraising churned nearly $14,000 in 2015 for the Activettes Food Bank. Last year 26 outhouses faced off, with families and friends cheering on from the cornered-off street sides. On the heels of completing its $400,000 fundraising goal to build an accessible playground at Fireside School, Friends of Fireside School are donating its committee volunteer time to lend support to the cause and work toward Cochrane having not one, but two accessible playgrounds. "This demonstrates that this is about bringing communities together," said Kroffat. Selfie lovers may wish to board the stagecoach – the one that Kroffat and Cornish will be calling the shots from. The relic was built in 1891 and used in the filming of the television show Bonanza, courtesy of Alex Baum of Cochrane Toyota. McDonald's Cochrane will be providing complimentary coffee and muffins at 8:30 a.m. Shelly Kramer of Royal LePage Integrity has also sponsored a tent to provide kiddie face painting. Participants are encouraged to come on down to the store or email Peace at [email protected] to registration in time.
