Local Run Club hosts Terry Fox Run
By Fernando David Moreno-Prado Times Contributor
For the third year in a row, the Strathmore Run Club will play host to a family-oriented event as part of the annual nationwide Terry Fox Run on Sept. 15.
Anyone can participate through running, walking, cycling, skating or even dog walking.
Club organizer Diana Baird expresses optimism over any potential setbacks.
Locally, the Terry Fox Run has been held since 1997, even virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. The main challenge will be the weather as last year there was a windstorm compared to the sunny weather of the previous year.
“Mother Nature was really with us in 2022 so I’m really hoping she’s going to have favour with us again this year,” says Baird. She expects to see at least 100 people turn up given the local population density.
Local schools have been very active in fundraising efforts with faculty members giving information to the students on what Terry Fox is all about and planning their own walking events for the month of September
“Terry’s ultimate goal was to raise enough funds to find a cure for cancer, but his goal was also to spread awareness of the disease,” says Baird.
The run will start with an opening ceremony consisting of a playing of “O Canada” along with some housekeeping rules laid out by Baird herself at the Amphitheatre at Kinsmen Park and the possibility of other speakers. Terry Fox Foundation shirts will be available for purchase.
Participants will have the option of participating in a 1 km or a 5 km run which they will be free to do at their own pace.
The 1 km run will consist of a run around the Kinsmen Lake which is “just a nice easy route to follow,” says Baird.
The 4 km run will take a loop around Gray’s Park.
When asked about the possibility of any post-run activities, Baird considered the possibility of refreshments depending on how many people show up.
People are encouraged to sign up or donate online (run.terryfox.ca/Strathmore). It is also possible to come early and register in person. People will still be able to donate online even after the event is over, reminds Baird.
In-person registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. followed by the opening at 1 p.m. and the run at 1:15 p.m. All ages are welcome.
“I really want to stress this is a free event. You do not have to donate any amount of money to be part of this,” says Baird, as she emphasises the community event aspect while also appreciating people’s generosities. “Hopefully everybody enjoys the social time together.”