By Matt Pouncy

The 1st 5K Foam Fest was fun for the whole family

Jun 30, 2018 | 5:14 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — For around 4,500 participates and 3,000 spectators the theme of the day was fun as music echoed throughout the stampede grounds.

This is the 1st of three years the 5K Foam Fest will take place in Medicine Hat and featured 2.5 million cubic feet of environmentally friendly foam.

This years version contained 22 obstacles including mud-pits, lily-pads, and the world largest portable, inflatable waterslide called the “Death Drop” and it stood over 50ft tall.

Jesse Fulton, president and founder of 365 Sports, says this event works because it’s accessible to anyone.

“Kids, parents, any shape, any size, any ability. We want people to come out and have some fun and raise money for a good cause,” said Fulton.

Young minds, big ideas: Elementary students learn about urban planning with 'Box City'

9h ago

HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Summer pool hours extended and discounts applied as Big Marble Go Centre upgrades start

Apr 18, 2024

Medicine Hat company drawing in clients with witty signage

Apr 16, 2024

Fulton raises money because he wants to make an impact in society and says you can’t take money with you, its what you leave behind.

Make-A-Wish is a national partner of the event and this year the goal is to raise $100,000 to help fund experiences for kids with terminal illnesses.

They also work with local food banks, school food programs, and in the past they’ve worked with Habitat for Humanity, and the Cancer Society.

365 Sports has 42 events planned globally this year between the 5K Foam Fest, Mud Hero, and others.

The Canadian portion of the tour has 15 stops in 16 weeks ending in Newfoundland before heading back to America, and then Australia.

Fulton is very passionate about the events and says he doesn’t sell tickets to the events, he sells smiles.

“I think the success stems from customer experience,” says Fulton. “I’m very, very intense and OCD when it comes to people having fun and enjoying the customer experience.”

Crews worked throughout the week starting on Tuesday, and will be packed up tomorrow at around 4 p.m. and will be on their way to Leduc.

“Very happy to be in Medicine Hat and we’ll see you next year. Don’t miss it,” said Fulton.

Below is some video from the event.