Fort St John is prepping for this weekend’s run-derful Terry Fox Run to finish the Canadian legend’s marathon of hope.
Runners, walkers, skateboarders, and bikers will take to the path at Northern Lights College’s Fort St John campus on Sept. 14. They are being asked by the organizer, Tara Maddigan, to arrive around 11 that morning, ahead of the run’s noon start time.
The date is decided by the Terry Fox Foundation, who put the onus on communities to band together and organize local runs. Donations collected by runners or teams are for the foundation.
“It’s just a good way to get out and support people that have had family members that have passed or are dealing with cancer,” explained Maddigan. “I feel in this day and age, (everyone) has been touched by cancer in some form.”
As runners take their marks this Sunday, they are welcome, and encouraged (especially by this reporter), to bring their friendly leashed dogs. They will have the option of going two-and-a-half kilometres and turning around, making it a 5K, or they can take the full five kilometre trip down the path and back, for a 10K.
“We do offer a 5K and a 10K, or anything that you want to do, we’re just happy to have people come out and show support,” the organizer said.
Maddigan offered advice for first timers. She said they should remember “it is not a timed event – so it’s not really a race. It’s just to get out, and do it, and just have fun. High five people on your way. Encourage other people as you pass them. If you’re walking, spark up a conversation.”
People are being asked to register on the Terry Fox Foundation’s website in advance, but walk-ins are welcome to make their way to the starting line. Donations will also be collected at the college at 11 on the morning of the run.
