Calgary police host stationary rowing event to raise funds for vets, first responders [Video]

A robust crew of volunteers are raising funds and awareness for first responders and veterans Saturday at Calgary police headquarters in northeast Calgary.

Starting at 9 a.m., 12 teams of 20 are competing in a seven-hour long stationary rowing event, Pulling Together for Mental Health.

“They’re battling it out over that seven hours to see who can raise the most money and also cover the most distance,” said CPS executive director Rory Thompson.

“All the money that we raise goes towards Calgary veterans and first responder supports for Wounded Warriors Canada,” Thompson added.

One example of how the money will be spent is through the use of an “operational stress intervention dog,” Thompson said, which will be made available to provide emotional support to members.

Thompson said the actual rowing competition is pretty challenging,with many teams breaking up the seven hours into five minute segments.

Rory Thompson is the CPS …