A unique relay race was held at Wascana Rehabilitation Centre on Saturday, bringing back a longstanding tradition for people living with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities.

The 2025 Regina Wheelchair Race took place to help spread awareness about the different services and support programs Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan Inc. offers, while providing people an opportunity to have fun racing one another.

“We’ve got people from the disability community; we have people of all abilities. It doesn’t matter what your ability is, what your age is, you can come out and have fun, participate or cheer people on,” said Delynne Bortis, executive director of Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan Inc.

This is now the second consecutive year for the race, which used to happen annually before the COVID-19 pandemic.

One participant said it’s great to see people across the city show their support for the cause.

“Last year was our first year back after COVID. We’re just trying to build it by getting more people involved, get more awareness around Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan,” Braden Pettinger said.

“Also [bring] more awareness regarding people with spinal fluid injuries and also people with physical disabilities.”

The event also serves as a fundraiser to support the 1,100 people the organization aims to help.

“It’s really important to raise money. This money all goes towards supporting our programs and services,” Bortis explained. “Whether we’re working with accessibility and inclusion, or peer support services, education and employment, the money stays in the province of Saskatchewan and goes to support all of our services.”

Last year, Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan Inc. raised close to $10,000. Bortis said the initiative continues to grow more every year with more sponsors putting their names behind the wheel.