With hockey sticks in hand, Keith Valley Middle School eighth-graders carried on the annual tradition Friday afternoon of playing floor hockey for 17 hours as part of the school's annual Keith Valley Challenge. 

The goal - besides scoring points - is to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization that grants wishes to children who have life-threatening illnesses. This year's event raised $49,687, meaning students succeeded in beating last year's $48,478. 

Throughout its 36-year history, the KV Challenge has raised $781,414 for various charities. The event began in 1977 when a Keith Valley student died of a rare congenital heart defect. In his memory, the administration, staff and eighth-grade students organized the hockey marathon that continues to this day.

Administrators are contemplating ending the Challenge early due to forecasted snow overnight. Click here to get an update.