Penticton is headed to the races to catch a killer.
A murderer will be lurking amongst those during derby day at the Penticton race track. Among the fancy hats, flowing champagne and roaring crowds something sinister has happened. This makes the stakes high at the JCI murder mystery fundraiser, Murder At The Races on May 31.
“One of the part owners of the race track was killed and everyone in attendance is trying to figure out the motive, find evidence and track down the killer,” said Martyn Lewis, chairman of the JCI Murder at the Races fundraiser. “We have a ton of prizes to give away during games throughout the evening and a grand prize for the person who solves the mystery, but you are going to have to be very smart to figure it out.”
This is the second time JCI has hosted a murder mystery event and they have added a few tweaks to the formula this time around, including mini games throughout the evening for prizes. Lewis said there will be six main characters played by volunteers, rather than all in attendance taking on a persona, and everyone will receive play money which they can use for the mini-games.
“It is going to definitely be a fun evening. We have expanded what we did last year with more prizes so people will constantly be busy either looking for clues, asking questions of the characters or playing the horse racing games. Sometimes at these type of events people can get confused or feel left out, but our event is going to be constant action,” said Lewis.
Those attending the evening are encouraged to dress up in costume. Lewis suggested men dress in smart attire, like a suit and top hat, and women can wear a hat to match their outfit. Prizes will be given out for best costume and best hat.
“I’m not suggesting anyone go out and purchase an extravagant outfit or hat, rather they can be creative and recycle something and make it crazy,” said Lewis.
The evening also includes a barbecue dinner served by Chef Darin Paterson at Bogner’s of Penticton.
All proceeds will go to the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation and to the JCI Summer Day Camp for Kids. The South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation depends on donations to raise funds needed for crucial care medical equipment, staff education and other special patient comfort programs.
JCI Summer Day Camp for Kids is operated through the Penticton Community Centre for children aged six to 12 years throughout July and August.
The program aims to both assist working parents who need care for their children and to provide a fun and exciting experience for kids looking to do something different during their summer vacation. Activities include indoor and outdoor games, bike rides, canoeing, swimming arts and crafts, cooking projects and more.
Murder At The Races takes place on May 31 at 6 p.m. at Bogner’s of Penticton. Tickets are $55 and available for purchase from Cowork Penticton or paypal account at Murder At The Races on Facebook, by credit card or call 250-462-9396. JCI members will also be at the Downtown Community Market on Saturday selling tickets, or you can find them at the Sport-Soccer booth.