Martial artists from all around the Pacific Northwest will be coming together in Maple Ridge this weekend to try and raise as much money as possible for the BC Cancer Foundation.
This inaugural Roll for a Reason fundraiser is put on by Northwest Jiu-Jitsu Academy, with thousands of dollars being raised each year.
Owner Perry Bateson explained that while he enjoys practicing and competing in jiu-jitsu, his main love is hosting these fundraising events.
He encouraged as many people as possible to attend, with all ages for both NoGi and Gi welcome to participate.
"We will host athletes from all over B.C. and Washington," said Bateson. "We will be rolling all day to raise money for cancer."
Participants can earn free entry to the grapplethon by fundraising for the official campaign, or by paying $50 at the door.
Last year's event managed to raise more than $12,000 for the BC Cancer Foundation, and Bateson hopes that the final tally reaches new heights this year.
So far, the online fundraiser has already surpassed $4,000, with a total goal of $15,000.
To help keep the athletes well-fed throughout the all-day event, Mr. Mikes is providing free lunch to all of the competitors.
Roll for a Reason takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information can be found at bccancerfoundation.com/rollforareason.
