Cromwell urges anyone digging during their search to first contact BC One Call before breaking ground

The hunt will feature a series of puzzling stages to test competitors' problem-solving skills

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Buried loot has called pirates across oceans for centuries, and now it’s calling treasure hunters to Vancouver, Edmonton, and Calgary. For the first time, Alberta-based Gold Hunt has hidden a chest with $100,000 in gold and silver somewhere underground in each city.

The race starts on June 1 at midnight, but you can buy the map online in advance.

Gold Hunt spokesperson Chris Cromwell says the hunt will feature a series of puzzling stages to test competitors’ problem-solving skills.

“For anyone who is searching for this treasure, you’ll need to use your wits,” he says. “If you come predisposed with an ability to solve riddles, you would be at an advantage.”

And Cromwell says it isn’t a game of chance.

“It’s not like a contest or a sweepstakes – there is no real guaranteed winner.”

Despite giving away $300,000 across the three cities, the company still believes they can be profitable. Cromwell is already looking ahead, with plans to give away an additional million dollars in the next few years by establishing quests in eastern Canada.

The mission for Gold Hunt’s team isn’t to make a cache of cash of their own. Cromwell says inspiring Canadians to adventure is what is really exciting about the company.

“I think everyone would love to one day go on an adventure like Indiana Jones,” he says, adding it’s a bit safer than “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

“The benefit of this treasure hunt is there are no booby traps.”

If you’re hoping to get a clue and change your fortune this summer, you’ll need to pre-order a map for $25, or $45 if you want better odds and five additional tips.

Gold Hunt has considered the risk of damage to city property, and Cromwell urges anyone digging during their search to first contact BC One Call before breaking ground.