Racing beds to pay for beds

Local businesses pulling-together to raise funds for charity.

One team is putting it all on the line to fundraise for charity in this year's Great Auckland Bed Race, an annual charity event that pits teams of six runners against each other as they push makeshift beds around the Auckland Domain.

Phil Shaw & James McGoram, two local business owners, are spearheading the efforts of a group of like-minded business people to raise money and awareness for Totara Hospice (www.hospice.co.nz)

“We first entered the Bed Race in it's inaugural year (2013) thinking it would be a good way to have a bit of fun with our colleagues and maybe raise a few bucks while we were at it.” says James, the team captain.

“Little did we know we would actually win the event, raising over $12,000 for Hospice.”

“I think Hospice was taken by surprise too,” adds Phil, the team manager. “In a good way, of course, and it spurred us on to enter the following year.”

The team didn't win in 2014, placing 3rd overall, but the prize they did take away was, to themselves and their charity, far more important than the championship title.

“In 2014, we raised more money for our charity than any other team, bringing in just over $20,000 for Totara Hospice.

We can't say it didn't hurt to be beaten by two other teams, but seeing how much of a difference our contribution to Hospice has made – that makes it all worthwhile.” says Phil.

The team is back again for the 2015 Race, with the same runners, a finely-tuned 'racing bed' and a desire to once more claim the top spot. The theme of the race is 'Heroes & Villains', so the team is dressing up as the All Blacks, with some of their extended team prepared to act as either Referees or Wallabies to give them 'vocal support' if they slow down around the course.

“The bed race is a great event, and a heck of a lot of fun,” says James, “we want to see as many people there as possible, win or lose. But preferrably win.”

The Great Auckland Bed Race is on Sunday 22nd March at the Auckland Domain, starting at 1pm, and is free to the public.

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