The crowds turned out for Iron Feast, an evening of ribs, wings and fun on the Wingham arena floor, as well as a visit by celebrity NHL goaltender Curtis Sanford.
The fundraising auction and feast was aimed more at generating community support for the Wingham Ironmen than raising funds.
“It’s full steam ahead,” said one of the event organizers, J Stevens of CKNX. The final totals raised haven’t been calculated yet, but the response from prize donors, sponsors and supporters was enthusiastic.
Sanford was an inspired choice for guest speaker – the Owen Sound native once played for the Wiarton Wolves Jr. C hockey team and has gone on to a promising NHL career. Said Stevens, Sanford knows what it’s like to come from a small community and achieve his dreams.
He served as an inspiration to guests at Iron Feast, and young players. “If you want to, you can make it,” said Stevens.
The event provided hockey fans with a taste of more than great food – it spoke of a new attitude and a new optimism for the Ironmen. The team’s association with the Listowel Cyclones offers two great teams and two levels of hockey to area residents. “We’re excited at the changes,” said Stevens. And feedback the team’s executive has received indicates a positive reaction in the community as well.
Iron Feast is only one of a number of special Wingham Ironmen events planned throughout the summer.