As a committee member for six years and member of the 100 Mile Old Stars hockey team, which has entered a team with the Relay for Life for the past 18 years, Greg Aiken could be considered a true veteran of the event.
Even with nearly two decades under his belt, though, his enthusiasm for the cause hasn't wavered a bit.
"I've lost my mom, grandparents, uncles and friends to cancer," explains Aiken.
"When I was asked six years ago if I'd be interested in being the site co-ordinator, I said ‘yes’."
Joining the committee was a way for him to give back and help find a cure, Aiken explains.
As with other committee members, Aiken says is really impressed with the enthusiasm for this year's relay at Centennial Park on June 8. The group has a lot of energy and wants to make the relay return to being a community event, he adds, while still raising awareness and funds for the cancer society.
A lot of great new ideas have been brought to the table, and Aiken admits he is a “doer.”
"Other people bring the ideas and I get it done," he jokes.
As site co-ordinator, Aiken says he confers with the committee on where the stage, tents, chairs, and vendors will go, and then ensures it all gets done.
Another part of his job is to lay out the track, and this year, it has been changed up slightly to incorporate more of the park. The one-kilometre route has been the same for years, but this year it will also incorporate the bridges.
Being a part of the Relay for Life means a lot to him.
"My mom was a huge influence on me. This is a way for me to honour her, and give back to the community."