Cochrane's zaniest race is coming back to Cochrane's Historic Main Street.

The 16th annual Cochrane Outhouse Races will see teams of 5 participating in a twist on chuckwagon races.

Karrie Peace, Outhouse Race Organizer, describes the event rolling out on September 24.

"Basically it is a chuckwagon race but the horses are people and the chuckwagons are outhouses. So we close down a block of Main Street and set up pylons, we have a caller and we've got two teams at a time. So several heaps they race against each other and then we do semi finals for the funniest and semi finals for the fastest."

Participants are encouraged to get creative, zany, and bring a whole of enthusiasm to the running of the commodes.

Peace is just finalizing details on a 'Plan B' after being rained out for the first time ever in 2015.

"I do have Plan B in case of rain at the saloon at Texas Gate, I am just waiting to get confirmation on a square dance caller so we should be able to have some fun because so many teams come out. That was so disappointing last year to have them come out and then say it's off."

Events like the Outhouse Races are another example of bringing Cochrane together, especially in a year where many locals have been hit hard as the lagging economy continues.

"I am getting some feedback from people that generally race and they are saying we just can't afford to do it, we can't afford the staff and the resources. It tells me that those of us that are able to do this event, need to come together and do it because people are really feeling the effects, and we have to pull together."

Registration is open, and Peace imagines she will see 20-24 teams compete. If you are looking to register you can download your form here and email them back to Peace at info@heavenlyouthouse.com

All monies raised from donations this year will go towards the Cochrane Activettes Share Your Christmas campaign in making hampers for local families in need.