Get ready to squash that pumpkin in Kingston

‘Crazy little idea’ has been a huge success

The South West Nova and Valley Chapter of Cystic Fibrosis’ is holding the sixth anniversary of its unique Squash CF Pumpkin Launch on Nov. 5.

Squash CF creator and CF champion, Tim Vallillee, says he is beyond proud of the success of this unique brand of fundraising for cystic fibrosis. At 48 years old, he has seen all sorts of fundraising efforts over the years, but is proud of the originality of his event.

“Our pumpkin launch has grown by leaps and bounds since our first event in 2011, which raised just under $2,000. With the help of Scotiabank’s ‘Matching Funds’ program, we are hoping to break the $10,000 mark,” says Vallillee.

“Our crazy little idea has really held the hearts of the Valley people. We have many folks come back year after year to help support our efforts in fighting cystic fibrosis,” said Agatha Bourassa, who is president of the local CF chapter.

The event is held every year at the Kingston Arena ball field on Westwood Avenue in Kingston. The Squash CF features two 14-foot tall slingshots that are erected to launch real pumpkins through the air towards a number of targets in the field for prizes from the local community.

In addition to the main attraction, onlookers can enjoy food, entertainment by the band Misty Mountain, and even a kid’s pumpkin launcher for those seven and under.

Squash CF is on Saturday, Nov. 5 (rain date Nov. 6) at Kingston Arena ball field (Credit Union Centre) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to Bourassa, some impressive prizes are lined up from Atlantic Superstore, Telus Mobility and Bruce Auto Group. Check out all the information including the current prize list and videos of the event from previous years at www. squashcf.org