THE FOLLOWING IS AN ILLINOIS FARM BUREAU RELEASE
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Embark on a new adventure-style team challenge to learn more about what makes Illinois agriculture unique while raising funds for statewide and local ag literacy programs through the IAA Foundation’s The AgMazing Race on Saturday, Aug. 3.
Held in Jersey and Calhoun Counties, teams will strategize their route to earn the most points by participating in farm tours, completing agriculture-related challenges, finding hidden gems and fundraising.
“We are excited to offer this new event not only to raise necessary funds for agricultural literacy, but to also highlight what makes Illinois agriculture so great,” said Breanne Beisiegel, IAA Foundation development specialist.
Teams will receive a map the day of the race to plot their route, which may include touring a farm like Odelehr’s Roadside Market to learn about and taste test homemade products, visiting agriculture businesses such as Fritz Meat and Processing to complete the Meat Cut Matching challenge, or discovering unique locations like Hamilton Primary School, the first free and integrated school in the U.S.
Teams may also fundraise to earn hints for locations around the map ahead of the race! In addition to first place, additional prize categories include Most Raised for Ag Literacy, First Team to Complete All Stops and Most Team Spirit.
Besides bragging rights and prizes for the winning team, the ultimate goal of the challenge is to raise money for agriculture literacy, including programs like Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IATC), IAA Foundation’s student scholarships and grants for agriculture education teachers.
Jersey County Farm Bureau (CFB) Manager Macy Wellhausen and Calhoun CFB Manager Jane Brangenberg assisted the IAA Foundation in mapping out potential stops for teams to visit.
“We are excited to work with the IAA Foundation in organizing the AgMazing Race and showcasing the variety of agriculture in Jersey and Calhoun counties,” said Wellhausen. “Our slice of the state is a beautiful location to travel to between the riverfront views, lengths of bluffs and the array of activities for all ages.”
Registration for the event and sponsorships is open through July 15. Entry cost is $250 per team with up to six members, which will cover the cost for activities throughout the day, dinner, and the awards presentation. Sponsorship amounts vary to offer opportunities for individuals or businesses to support.
A block of hotel rooms is available at the Pere Marquette in Grafton for guests traveling from out of town. Register through the IAA Foundation by July 1 to reserve a room. Visit iaafoundation.org for more information.
The IAA Foundation is the charitable arm of Illinois Farm Bureau. Its mission is to fund education, research and charitable activities that benefit Illinois farm families and agriculture.
