Joe's Big Race 2012:
An adventure race to benefit Camp Roger and its Campers
“Joe’s Big Race brings together a unique blend of teamwork, strategy, perseverance and live chickens.” (Dave, racer)
Joe's Big Race was created in fond memory of "Indian Joe" Cizauskas, who was a kind neighbor to Camp Roger and a true keeper of the land, but honestly never raced anywhere. The race started out as an idea for big fun, but has become an integral part of bringing kids to camp. The goal of the race is to raise money for our financial aid fund. This fund serves to assist families with financial obstacles so their children may experience a summer at camp.
Seventh Annual Joe's Big Race will be on
Saturday April 14, 2012
What is this race like?
Joe’s Big Race can best be described as a combination of Survivor, Amazing Race, and Wipeout type challenges and adventures. It is physical and mental; serious and utterly ridiculous. You never know if you are going to be eating jelly beans, milking a goat, or creating a canoe paddle and paddling across a lake. The race takes place on Camp Roger’s 190 acres of wooded land and we love to incorporate nature and a certain “camp feel” to our challenges. Each year the challenges are new and the teams are in for a big surprise.
How can I help?
Be a contributor: So you’re no athlete; that’s fine with us. Your financial or services donations, willingness to volunteer, and/or prayers all help us get kids out into the woods enjoying God’s world.
Compete in the race: Gather up a team of four and raise $1,000 or more in sponsorship money and you can be a part of Camp Roger history.
Be a sponsor: If you know someone who is racing, sponsor their team or take advantage of one of our sponsorship opportunities (contact the camp office for details).
Who can race?
ANYONE! In the past we have had teams made up of camp counselors, staff members, board members, past campers, moms of campers and people who just love camp.
How do I put together a team?
Teams are made up of four racers and an optional alternate team member. Contact the camp office for a team packet with all the information you will need to help you raise your funds and get ready for race day.
Can I come watch on race day?
Absolutely! Many of the day’s events are spectator friendly. The challenges are spread out all through camp and throughout the day, so there are many opportunities to join in the fun.
What our past teams have to say about the race:
“JBR is a time when adults get to be kids again. You get to use your imagination, be creative, play with toys, and be amazed by creation. And we do it so real kids, who wouldn't otherwise get to, can come and do the same at Camp Roger.” (Matt, racer)
“Winning JBR ranks in my top 5 best days ever...just don't tell my wife!” (Henry, racer)
"Participating in Joe's Big Race, gave me an opportunity to raise funds to help children go to camp, while letting me be a BIG kid camper for a day!" (Lisa, racer)
“JBR is a great way to raise money and support for a local organization that is instrumental to the lives of so many young people. And what better way to raise money than engaging in healthy competition and staying in shape. Our team looks forward to the race every year with great anticipation. It is always great to see both new teams and familiar faces out there supporting Camp Roger. Win or "lose" we always leave feeling accomplished and glad for being able to contribute to such a good cause.” (Kyle, racer)
“Joe's Big Race involves adventure, fun, laughter, and raising money for kids to come to camp. What more could you ask for on a Saturday? I have been on a team for JBR all but one year, and I hope to keep competing. It stretches me, gives me and my teammates a great time, and helps more campers come to Camp Roger.” (Bev, racer)
Please contact the camp office for a team packet or more information on how to be a sponsor. We would love to assist you in assisting us!
2011 Leaderboard
1st Place – Scruff the Magic Dragon
- Four gift certificates to Bill and Paul’s Sport Haus
- Four Ferry tickets from Manitou Island Transit
- Four $50 gift certificates to local restaurants
- A week at Camp Roger for a child of the teams choosing
- Four bottles of ProFuse
2nd Place – TBD
- Four $50 gift certificates to Bill & Paul’s Sport House
3rd Place & Fundraising award – Second String
- Four $100 gift certificates to the Outpost store in Holland.
2011 Teams
The Sarcastic Four: Jim Gort, Philip Gort, Matt Gort, Rick Koenes
TBD: Dave Dannenberg, Kyle Redder, Curt Redder, Jill Redder
Pullahammie: Jeff Schipper, Kyle Heys, Glenn Heys, John Engbers
A Bunch Of Losers: Josh Zwiep, Geoff Smeenge, Steve Vanloo, Ted Start
TEAM-ISH: Lisa Hammond, Daniel Wiersma, Jenna Wiersma, David Hammond
Kind Of Epic: Bev Vanderwell, Deanne Rosendall, Rebecca Malmquist, Amy Parmeter
Kindawannabeatcha: Matt Falk, Jim Peterson, Rich Hekman, Kevin Koeman
VTVB: Scott VanTimmeren, Bob VanTimmeren, Chris VanTimmeren, Zack VandenBerg
Second String: Andrew Huizenga, Jessica Huizenga, Nathan Schram, Nate Gilbertson
Scruff The Magic Dragon: Sam Fox, John VanderPloeg, Matt Veltkamp, Noel Hayden
The Roundhouse 5: Henry Witte, Alan Musch, Adam Rhodes, Zac Wanner