Don't sleep on upcoming VIP Bed Race

FORT BENNING, Ga., (Feb. 11, 2015) -- Once a year, locals transform beds into vehicles and race down the streets of Columbus to raise money for families in need. Set for Feb. 28, the annual Valley Interfaith Promise Bed Race challenges teams to build a bed on wheels and compete using only manpower for awards and prizes. Festivities will begin at 11 a.m. with live music from local performers.

Richard Ito, a longtime volunteer and participant, said the race is VIP's largest fundraiser, which helps to support for homeless families with children. VIP provides shelter, meals, transportation and other support services through partnerships with local agencies, businesses, congregations and individuals. The organization has served homeless families in the Chattahoochee Valley since 2006.

"This event has fantastic participation every year," Ito said. "We're helping a very worthy charity in the community and addressing a problem that tends to be overlooked, which is to keep homeless families together."

The race course is a straight run on 14th Street starting from 1st Avenue to Broadway, at the corner of Country's BBQ. The course is approximately 150 yards long.

Teams must have a minimum of five people to run the race - one rider and four runners to push the bed. Teams will compete for awards in six categories, including the Susan Scroggs Memorial Merit Award, Fastest Bed, Donna Souerwine Memorial Best Theme, Heath Jackson Memorial Team Spirit Award, Crowd's Choice and divisional winners. Ito said the race is a good way for Soldiers to volunteer in the community. Spectators are also encouraged to attend.

"Last year, two teams from 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team participated and they were received very well," Ito said. "It was great to see some Fort Benning units out there and we hope there are more this year."

The entry fee is for the race $100 per team. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

For complete details about registration, race rules, bed construction tips and more, visit www.valleyinterfaithpromise.com and click on the 2015 VIP Bed Race tab.