Hundreds Take Part In Annual 'Chiditarod' Race, Fundraiser
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Hundreds of people are pushing elaborately decorated shopping carts through the streets of Chicago today for the annual Chiditarod race and fundraiser.
WBBM's Mike Krauser reports the Chiditarod is billed as possible world's largest mobile food drive.
"We've had teams that bring thousands of pounds of food. You're not allowed to check in without a minimum of 60 pounds of food," said Diane Back, an organizer for the event.
Hundreds Take Part In 'Chiditarod' Fundraiser
She says there are about 160 teams this year with each consisting of five people.
"They can compete for just epic glory throughout the day," said Back.
Some of the shopping carts could be described as "epic." Each cart has a theme and team members are all in costume.
"20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, and blowing bubbles, a gigantic cake," said Back.
The Chicago Food Depository is one of the beneficiaries and the organization's Jim Conwell says the Chiditarod in inspiring.
"Last year they collected more than 16,000 pounds of food here. We certainly hope to exceed that this year and every can makes a difference for someone in need," said Conwell.
Aside from collecting thousands of pounds of food, the event has raised over $30,000.
