2010 Victoria Canary Derby Brings Total Closer to CAN$750,000

July 2010

The ten teams competing in the fifth annual Victoria Canary Derby on June 12 raised more than CAN$80,000, with the proceeds going to the early detection of cancer and additional funds still coming in. Established in 2006, the Canary Derbies have raised CAN$731,000 to date, with all funds remaining in British Columbia. The annual Canary Derby helps fund research by bringing together the technology and business communities of Victoria and Vancouver, the Canary Foundation of Canada, and the BC Cancer Foundation to help support cancer early detection research.
Applied Sciences Team OrCar goes airborne on the obstacle course.

The 2010 Derby was held on a sunny Saturday at Vancouver Island Technology Park. GenoLogics CEO Michael Ball said, "Each year I am amazed by the engagement and passion that is exhibited by the company teams, sponsors, and spectators at this event. Early detection is a game changer in the fight against cancer and I am happy that we can play a part in supporting this cause." Teams at the event included the GenoLogics Transformers, the Aquatic Informatics Waterboys, Carmanah Technologies' Flying Canary, the Camosun College Sharks, JASCO Applied Sciences Team OrCar, the Neverblue Bombers, the BC Cancer Agency Antibodies, Vifor Pharma, Vancouver Island Technology Park, and Schneider Electric.
Derby supporters Don Listwin, Michael Ball and Jason Dyke at the Vancouver Island Tech Park.

GenoLogics took the cup in the Canary Style category with their Transformers-inspired team. In the Canary Speed category, Schneider Electric went home with the first place trophy, barreling down the track at 46 km/h. The top three fundraising teams were Schneider Electric, GenoLogics, and Carmanah Technologies, who together contributed more than CAN$30,000. The Bent Wheel Award for Outstanding Sportsmanship went to the Camosun College team. Sponsor support was overwhelming this year–the most in our history at CAN$21,750. Gold Sponsors included Boardwalk Communications, Investors Group, Schneider Electric, and Telus. Bronze Sponsors included PricewaterhouseCoopers and Fasken Martineau. Thank you!

Race Director Walt Nicholson was awarded the Volunteer Award for his consistent contribution to the Derby. For five years he has made the race what it is today–an exciting spectacle for both participants and viewers.

The Dunk Tank was once again a highlight for attendees of all ages. Many thanks to Veronica Cooper of CHEK TV, who waited in suspense before finally taking the plunge.

This event would not have been possible without the support of volunteers. Thank you for your enthusiasm and efforts, which made the event both efficient and fun. We look forward to seeing you again on June 18, 2011, for the sixth annual Victoria Derby.

Canary Derby cars are built by corporate or private teams and are unpowered, relying completely upon gravity and team ingenuity. The Vancouver Derby will be held September 25, 2010, at Burnaby's Deer Lake Park and is on track to take the Derby total past the CAN$750,000 mark. For more information on the Derbies or to register for or sponsor the Vancouver Derby, please visit www.canaryderby.com.