The event started with a light-hearted gumboot toss where one competitor jokingly pulled something out of his pocket and tampered with the gumboot. 

Then, before the main race got underway one of the three teams was moved from starting position number one into eighth spot because they had already done a practise run of the course. 

Despite the setback, the Kilpatrick’s Joinery team took out the race. 

The event was held in the name of fun in a bid to raise funds for disability advocate service StGiles.

The re-purposed hospital beds had seen better days after the race, with a number of wheels blown.

Rotary Club of Launceston’s Bed Race coordinator Adrian Kok said the group expected to raise about 70 per cent of its $10,000 target. 

“We only got three beds to start off with, but that’s fine. We had some activities, and we had amazing prizes from businesses around town. Most of them said they couldn’t be a bed in the race, but they were happy to donate,” Mr Kok said.  

“Next year I’m sure there will be a lot more teams that can rival the Kilpatrick’s team.” 

The idea has been in the works for more than 12 months, but Mr Kok said he was happy to see it finally come to fruition. 

The teams ran a 900-metre course pushing the bed, and all teams received a medal. 

Way FM was the second team and the rotary club combined with New Horizons to make the third team. 

“The prize they get is a large shield, which will stay with the rotary club and they’ll get a shield for the team to keep,” Mr Kok said. 

Anyone interested in being involved in next year’s event is urged to contact the Rotary Club of Launceston. 

“This is a prelude and we will hold it roughly the same time next year, but before the Burnie 10. Get your bed made early so when we come to see you, you’re ready to go,” Mr Kok said.

The 2019 funds will be donated to a different charity.