Julia LennipsThe 14th annual Canada Army Run, presented by BMO, was a huge success, with well over 10,000 participants this year.
The race took place from September 10 to the 19th, and this year was the second time it was done in a virtual format. As a result, the event’s reach increased and people registered from across Canada and in approximately 20 other countries.
Grateful for Support
“We are extremely grateful for the support our Canada Army Run family have shown us. They have been very understanding of the ongoing pandemic situation and our requirement to continue to operate in the virtual event space again for 2021,” said Race Director Major Lesley Quinlan.
“Canada Army Run is no ordinary race, and this event wouldn’t be possible without the incredible sponsors, supporters, volunteers, partners, donors, and participants,” she added.
According to Quinlan, the 10,000 registrants logged more than 83,000 kilometres. Canadians, who make up 97 per cent of the participants, ran in every province and territory and on bases and support units.
Recent Roof Collapse
Quinlan and Vasiliki Zobolas, Marketing Manager Canada Army Run, Canadian Army Headquarters, voiced how grateful they have been for the event’s success. Still, they also mentioned they wish they could have avoided a recent roof collapse that damaged the race kits.
“Thankfully, no one was near the affected area during the time of the incident. However, the extent of the damage meant participants would experience delays in receiving their packages, and it meant we needed to adapt and regroup,” they explained.
Despite the challenges at play, people remained supportive and understanding throughout.
“Many sent us wonderful photos of themselves, their families, and their run groups, proving the power of sport can bring people together to accomplish great things,” they added.
More people signed up this year, and participants raised more money in the peer-to-peer fundraising than in any other year in Canada Army Run’s history.
In a virtual format, people don’t experience the cannon signaling the start of the race and the big crowds cheering, but it still gives people a goal and something to work towards. That sense of camaraderie is something that people look forward to at the Army Run.
While Major Quinlan said it’s entirely possible that a virtual run will be part of future events in order to spread the event beyond just Ottawa.
“I hope next year’s run will be back bigger than ever and runners will be able to once again give each other big, sweaty hugs and emotional high-fives at the finish line,” Quinlan stated.
