READ CAREFULLY — By signing this form, you are giving up your right to sue Catonsville Scoops and/or Believe In Tomorrow if you are injured or become ill as a result of participating in this event.
Voluntary Participation & Assumption of Risk
I acknowledge that rapid consumption of ice cream and attendance at a public event involve inherent and obvious risks, including but not limited to: choking; aspiration; esophageal rupture; allergic or anaphylactic reaction to dairy, nuts, or other ingredients; cold‑induced headache ("brain freeze"); gastrointestinal distress; communicable diseases (including COVID‑19); soft‑tissue injury of the mouth or throat; serious injury; or death. I voluntarily participate in the contest and assume all risks—foreseeable and unforeseeable— arising from my participation, whether caused by my own actions, the actions of others, or the ordinary negligence of Catonsville Scoops.
Health, Allergies & Impairment
I certify that I am physically fit, not pregnant, not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and free from any medical condition, allergy, or dietary restriction that could make participation unsafe. I have consulted a physician as needed and understand that ice cream contains dairy, nuts (peanuts and tree nuts), gluten, soy, and other allergens.
Release, Hold Harmless & Indemnification
In consideration of being allowed to participate, I, on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors, and assigns, hereby release, waive, and discharge Catonsville Scoops and Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation, together with their respective owners, employees, volunteers, sponsors, contractors, vendors, suppliers, and insurers (collectively “Scoops”) from any and all liability for injury, illness, death, property loss, or damages arising out of or in connection with my participation, whether caused by Scoops’ ordinary negligence or otherwise. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Scoops from any claim brought by a third party arising from my actions during the event.
This release does not apply to gross negligence or willful misconduct, which Scoops expressly denies.
Medical Treatment & Emergency Care
I authorize Scoops to obtain emergency medical care on my behalf if deemed necessary and agree to be financially responsible for any resulting costs. I acknowledge that Scoops makes no assurance that medical personnel or equipment will be available and accept all risk arising from the unavailability or delay of such care.
Contest Conduct, Fairness & Compliance
I agree to follow all published contest rules and any instructions given by event staff or judges. I understand this is a family‑run charity event, not a sanctioned competitive‑eating contest. While organizers will strive for fairness, I waive any claim related to alleged cheating, officiating errors, or rule interpretation. Failure to comply with rules or staff instructions may result in removal without refund.
Media Release
I grant Scoops the unrestricted right to photograph, film, livestream, or otherwise record my participation and to use my name, likeness, image, voice, and biographical information for any lawful purpose without further compensation.
Parental / Guardian Consent (required if participant is under 18)
I am the parent/legal guardian of a participating minor. I have read and understand this waiver, authorize emergency medical care for the minor, and agree to all terms on the minor’s behalf.
Governing Law, Venue & Dispute Resolution
This waiver shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland. Any dispute arising out of this agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Baltimore County, Maryland. The prevailing party in any such action shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs. The parties agree to attempt good‑faith mediation before filing suit.
Severability
If any provision of this waiver is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
Acknowledgment & Signature
I HAVE READ THIS WAIVER, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, AND, BY CHECKING THE BOX, I AM SIGNING IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY. I UNDERSTAND THAT I AM GIVING UP SUBSTANTIAL LEGAL RIGHTS.