Carp shinny tournament to benefit Friedreich’s Ataxia research

CARP – Shinny season is pretty short, even at planet earth’s coldest capital, so make sure you take every opportunity you get to hit the ODR.

On Sunday, Jan. 27 take part in Hockey 4 Humanity – a three vs. three outdoor shinny tournament in benefit of Friedreich’s ataxia research. Friedreich’s ataxia is a rare genetic disease that causes difficulty walking, a loss of sensation in the arms and legs, and impaired speech. It’s also known as spinocerebellar degeneration.

Tournament organizer Alex Carlson has a close connection to the rare disease.

“The tournament in benefit of research for a disease my littlest brother was diagnosed with five years ago called Friedreich’s ataxia,” Carlson said in a post.

Carlson’s brother Kaelan, who lives in Dunrobin, is 14-years-old.

“We are excited to be hosting our third year in a row, and hope to spread the word as a great winter community event,” Carlson told West Carleton Online.

Proceeds of the tournament will go directly to the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance.

Players can register on their own or as a team of six players ($25 per person or $150 per team).  Games are between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Carp ODR (108 Juanita Ave.)

Each participant receives a Mind Matter Ink toque upon sign up. Each team is guaranteed three games with the top eight teams advancing to the playoff round.

There are no goalies but modified nets are used to keep the game challenging.

There will also be a silent auction, 50/50 draw, barbecue and food available for purchase and the winning team’s name is embedded on the Hockey 4 Humanity trophy.

The tournament is also looking for volunteers to help out.

For more information on the tournament you can email info@mindmatterink.com or visit the event’s Facebook page.