MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Running Festival made its official debut on June 8 — and crossed the finish line with a record-setting result.
— now in its 21st year — this event marked the third organized by race director Andrea Amiot and the first under its new festival format, drawing more than 325 runners and walkers in support of pediatric care at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital.
Amiot said the festival’s transformation into a full-fledged running event paid off in a big way. Participation jumped by 20 per cent over last year’s 271 attendees, with runners from 44 different communities and four provinces — including one participant from as far away as Florida — helping make this year the most successful yet.
“We set out to build something that brings people together, encourages movement, and gives back. I truly believe we did just that,” Amiot said. “Moose Jaw showed up in a big way.”
Thanks to that strong turnout and a boost in sponsorship support from nearly a dozen local businesses, the festival is donating $15,004.89 to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation — a 63.1 per cent increase from last year’s total of $9,200. The donation will directly support pediatric rehabilitation services at the regional hospital.
“Crossing the finish line with a $15,004.89 donation is an incredible milestone,” said Kelly McElree, CEO of the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. “On behalf of the Moose Jaw Health Foundation, thank you to the Moose Jaw Running Festival organizers, sponsors, and every participant who went the distance to support pediatric rehabilitation. Your commitment helps children and their families take confident steps toward a future filled with possibility and hope.”
Participants had the option of running one of four distances — a five-kilometre, 10-kilometre, half-marathon, or the popular “Runt Run” for children. Among the finishers in the Runt Run were two local children, Wells and Lydia, who received treatment with equipment purchased through last year’s fundraising.
“That was really awesome to see … what we were able to fundraise for,” said Amiot. “We were able to give back and see kids that maybe would have never crossed finish lines, cross finish lines.”
This year’s event was presented by Golden West Trailer & Equipment and operated in full partnership with 321 Go Running, a Saskatchewan-based company that organizes charity races across the province. Timing was handled by Prairie Run Crew, whose team helped deliver a smooth experience on race day.
Amiot extended thanks to the nearly 40 volunteers, the City of Moose Jaw transportation department, and the Wakamow Valley Authority for their behind-the-scenes support.
“Without our sponsors and partners, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” she said.
Local sponsors included: The Mosaic Company, Casino Moose Jaw, Visit Moose Jaw, Sonya’s Insurance & Financial Solutions Ltd., Prairie Spring Water, The Attic Spin Studio, Clothes Encounter, My Addictions Boutique, Vicki Pantelopoulos Realty, and Ottawa Real Estate & Insurance.
Amiot confirmed that next year’s charitable race will return, with 321 Go Running and Prairie Run Crew set to help organize once again.
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