Wilson's Amazing Race returns

Submitted by First Baptist Church of Wilson

Peaceful? Normal? Tranquil? That's not how folks will describe the lakeside community of Wilson on Friday, June 8, starting at 6 p.m. That's when this town will set the pace with its third annual Amazing Race. Between 6 and 9 p.m., the entire village will become the setting for a fast-paced, life-sized action game. Contestants of all ages will come together in what event organizers promise to be a "night to remember" as 16 teams set out on foot in a daring dash around a pre-planned course to determine who will be the winner of Wilson's Amazing Race 2012.

According to event organizer, First Baptist pastor the Rev. Stephen Hay, this year's game promises to be even bigger with more adrenaline pumping challenges than last year. Unlike previous races, participants won't be using traditional methods of reading riddles and clues to get around the course. This year the game has gone electronic. After each team has accomplished a specific task, they will be given a code to text to home base, where referees will respond with the team's next location and challenge.

"These are not your run-of-the-mill challenges," says Hay. "Everything comes with a twist."

Racers will be required to catapult doughnuts with giant sling-shots; declare paintball-war on the Easter Bunny who will attempt to capture back his basket; "enjoy" their first brain freeze of the summer in a milkshake-chugging competition at Brownies; choke down cafeteria food in front of the school with a "lunch lady special;" participate in a tricycle race blindfolded, and believe it or not, much more mayhem. Hay reminded everyone, "This is going to be an event you don't want to miss."

He reports the Amazing Race has experienced its own "growing pains," and has grown to two races this year. The JR Race is designed for youth ages 7-10 years old. Each team of six kids must also have a participating adult with a cell phone. The adult race will be comprised of teams of up to five racers. Hay wants to remind participants that there are also "style points," and the best "dressed" teams will win prizes, too.

Participating teams should gather in the First Baptist Church parking lot at the corner of Pettit and Chestnut streets for registration at 6 p.m. on June 8. At that time, final instructions will be announced and the first "clue" will be given for a "shotgun" start to the Amazing Race. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place finishes.

Hay added, unlike the popular TV show, in Wilson's Amazing Race, everyone is a winner, and the Baptist Church extends an open invitation to the entire community to come and watch the start of the race and enjoy a free hot dog as the teams cross the finish line.

For more details or to pre-register, visit First Baptist Church online atwww.wilsonfbc.org. All of the event updates will also be on Facebook.