The Peterborough Petes organization has announced details of the 17th annual Pink in the Rink campaign in support of cancer research.
During a media conference at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Tuesday (January 6), the Petes announced this season’s game will take place on Saturday, February 7 at 7:05 p.m. when the Petes host the Sudbury Wolves at the Memorial Centre.
The annual Pink in the Rink campaign has raised more than $1 million over the past 16 years for cancer research and support, making it the Ontario Hockey League’s largest ongoing fundraiser.
Proceeds have gone to a number of different organizations, and this year’s campaign will benefit Survivors Abreast, a local group of breast cancer survivors at various stages of treatment and recovery.
The organization is best known for hosting Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival, which has raised more than $4.9 million toward cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.
“This year, we are especially proud to continue what is the OHL’s largest ongoing fundraiser while partnering with Survivors Abreast, a local organization that has made a lasting difference in our community,” said Petes general manager and vice-president of operations Michael Oke in a media release. “Their dedication, compassion, and support for those affected by breast cancer truly embody the spirit of this event.”
Janice James, president of the Survivors Abreast board of directors, said the organization is honoured to be selected as this year’s beneficiary.
“In addition to hosting Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival and representing our region at other festivals, we strive to raise awareness about breast cancer and survivorship,” James said. “We try to inspire hope, resilience, and living life to the fullest, and we’re thrilled the Petes are helping us do that.”
Petes captain Carson Cameron said the campaign highlights the broader impact of the sport on the community.
“Pink in the Rink is a powerful reminder that hockey can be about more than just the game,” Cameron said. “It represents support, awareness, and standing together for an important cause, and we’re proud to be part of something that reaches far beyond the ice.”
Fundraising activities during this year’s game will include pass the bucket and an in-person silent auction, with a game-worn jersey auction held on the ice following the game.
The design for this year’s Pink in the Rink jerseys will be released in the coming weeks.
New for 2026, special rink boards featuring the names of loved ones affected by cancer will be installed for the game. Fans can purchase a name slot for $5.
Fans can also submit names and photos of loved ones to be displayed on the video board during the game by emailing jdowner@gopetesgo.com.
Limited tickets for the February 7 game are available in person at the Peterborough Memorial Centre box office at 151 Lansdowne Street West weekdays during business hours, by calling 705-743-3561, on online at tickets.memorialcentre.ca. Fans are encouraged to act quickly before the game sells out.
