Cochrane’s most anticipated pond hockey fundraiser is making a return to Mitford ponds next year, with the 16th annual Kimmett Cup set for February 7 and 8.
The staple charity event is dedicated to the memory of University of Calgary Medical School Alumnus, Lindasy Kimmett, who tragically passed away in February of 2008.
Lindsay’s father, and someone who does a lot of carrying for every annual event, Kelly Kimmett, explained that the event grew from something between family and friends to a town-wide celebration.
“In 16 years, it’s come a long way,” Kimmett said. “A whole town grows over by the ice on Friday, and by Monday it’s all gone again.”
This year’s event will raise donations for to a special program dedicated to children’s mental healthcare at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, the Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area, and Helping Families Handle Cancer.
“And we always do a little bit for the Lions Club and Cochrane Search and Rescue,” he said. “They always help out with the tournament.”
Over the last 16 years, the Kimmett Cup has raised over $2 million. In total, the Lindsay Kimmett Memorial Foundation has raised over $3.5 million for charities and has also contributed over $500,000 to local businesses through purchases for the tournament.
For Kimmett, seeing the sun go down and watching hockey go on into the night is something he always looks forward to every year. He adds that its very special to sometimes see three generations out on the ice.
“Its something Lindsay would have loved to see,” Kimmett said. “We also play the special playlists she had on her iPod, so it’s like she’s always there on the weekend.”
With 48 teams already registered, there is still room for entry. The U18 division will also be making a return, with 12 teams already registered for the upcoming tournament.
“That one has gotten really popular, and those kids are very involved in the fundraising-end of it because they know how to operate social media,” he said. “So, they’re a great addition to the tournament.”
Kimmett said there are several surprises lined up for the upcoming Kimmett Cup, which will be confirmed closer to the event.
For more information on the 16th Kimmett Cup or on how to register a team, please visit www.kimmettcup.com.
