Despite the overcast and drizzly weather, 60 walkers, runners, and riders participated in this year’s Terry Fox Run on Sunday, Sept. 9.
Participants were able to chose between taking on the 10 kilometre challenge out towards Skutz Falls, or the 5 kilometre, slightly easier route, down the Trans Canada Trail and back along Greendale Road.
The run’s start and finish line was at Saywell Park, and at 10 a.m. Dick Newman signalled the start of the walk.
Before hand, Katherine Worsley lead the singing of “O’ Canada,” and participants were welcomed and given last minute information by Jean Cozens, one of the organizers.
Participants were also led through some warm up exercises by Bernadette Knowles. With Queen’s “Fat Bottom Girls” blasting across the park, Knowles had the crowd stretching, jumping and generally having a good time.
This being the second year the Terry Fox Run has taken place after the run was discontinued here in Lake Cowichan for a couple of years due to a drop in numbers and the fact that it seemed to conflict with the Great Lake Walk event, organizers are pretty happy with how it turned out.
A total of $1,848 was raised through both pledges and donations, and there were a total of 60 participants, and 28 volunteers.
Organizers were very grateful for the community support that they received, especially from Lance Steward and Brian MacGregor from Jakes at the Lake.
The two gentlemen volunteered their time and donated all the fixings to barbecue hamburgers for all those registered in the walk.
“We’ve done similar things before,” said Steward. He was impressed with the energy of organizers and the appreciation they showed.
“You’d think we’d cured cancer or something,” said Steward. “All we’re doing is flipping burgers, but it’s pretty nice to be that appreciated.”
“We’re pleased to be part of it,” said MacGregor. “It’s a great cause.”
Donna Louie, fundraising and office administrator for the Terry Fox Foundation was also impressed.
“Our hearts are full of gratitude for all you have done and continue to do for Terry’s legacy. Terry’s dream of a world free of cancer will become reality one day.”