Yellowknife (Oct 08/03) - As the clock struck 11 a.m. Saturday, lunch was served. Hungry babies sat in wait until the biggest synchronized breastfeeding event in North America began to unfold.

Yellowknife breastfeeding mothers, 13 in total, along with their 14 young toddlers took part in the annual event to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding.

Children ranging in age from 11 days to three and one-half years took part -- albeit unknowingly.

While there were actually 15 women and 17 children at the official starting time, two babies decided they were not hungry, thereby disqualifying them from the event.

"The idea is to try and break the world's record for the most women breastfeeding at one time," organizer Tina Drew explained.

The combined effort of North American women began as the brainchild of a Vancouver woman several years ago to highlight breastfeeding during Breastfeeding Week, Drew said.

Today, it has become the Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge and is growing in popularity.

While Drew was expecting about four people, she said she was pleased when the larger group arrived to take part.

A number of the participants were from the Yellowknife Breastfeeding support group, who meet regularly to support one another, she said.

Mother Leslie Dragon brought baby Olivia to the event for the first time and won a participation prize.

"I wanted to participate because I know how important breastfeeding is for the baby and also for the mom," Dragon says.

Karen Lewall was happy to get together with other mothers and meet with other breastfeeders.

And 11-day-old Victoria Hamm had no qualms about latching on at 11 a.m., said her mom Nicole, who was pleased with the number of people who arrived at Northern United Place for the event. "It's good to see so many people breast feeding and to know there is a support network out there. It's the best thing you can do for your baby," Hamm said.