Record 30 mascots entered for the 2nd annual Mascot Derby at Hastings
Racecourse on Saturday, Aug.14

Double the Mascots; Double the Family Fun In Support of Variety - The Children's Charity

VANCOUVER, Aug. 10 /CNW/ - Bread Head from Cobs Bread won the inaugural Mascot Derby at Hastings Racecourse last year and predicts he will retain his title on Saturday, August 14. But what Bread Head doesn't know is the fact the field has doubled from 15 to 30 participants for the 2nd annual showdown in support of Variety - The Children's Charity.

Because of the increased number of mascots in this year's field, there will be three heats with the top three finishers from each heat advancing to the championship Final.

The qualifying heats will be run after regular thoroughbred Races 2, 3 and 4 on Saturday's Hastings card, with the Final taking place after Race 6. Each heat begins at the official starting gate with the mascots racing approximately 100 yards to the finish line.

Mascots of all sizes from all walks of corporate and sporting life have entered the 2010 competition. Leo the Lion represents the BC Lions, Bob Brown Bear from the baseball Canadians is bringing his sushi family of mascots that include Ms. BC Roll, Kappa Maki and Chef Wasabi, two 'Wingers' will be on hand representing the Vancouver Whitecap FC Soccer Club and Surrey Eagles Hockey Club, Jack the Giant returns from the Vancouver Giants, Horse from Hastings Racecourse will be on his home turf, Philbert the Hedgehog adds a sweet touch from Purdy's, Sunny Bear carries the BC Children's Hospital banner, the quick Mr. Fox from 99.3 FM Radio is ready to jump over any barriers that might be in his way, Farmer Kin from Kin's Farm Market, Mr. Peanut, Mr. Jelly Belly, Peter Pin ... the list goes on! Variety's mascot Heartly will oversee the proceedings.

Thoroughbred racing fans at Hastings will have the opportunity to cast their votes for their favourite mascots. The list of prizes for participating fans includes a River Rock Casino Resort package, River Rock Show Theatre tickets and Hastings Racecourse gift certificates for brunch at Silks Restaurant.

Mascot Mania will invade Hastings Racecourse and Slots starting at 1pm on Saturday. The whole family is invited to enjoy this annual event and help support Variety, The Children's Charity.

All proceeds go to Variety - The Children's Charity - a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to raising funds to inspire hope, enrich lives and build a better future for children in B.C. Since 1965, Variety has raised more than $155 million in support of children with special needs.

For further information: Sonja Mandic, Media Manager, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, 604.889.7114, [email protected]