This year’s Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk event has ramped up its pace with some new additions while keeping with traditions. This year’s run takes place on Saturday July 14 at 9 am.
“It is very special to be able to put on an event that combines the love for running, walking and raising funds for our local hospital foundation,” says Jen Johnston a participant for the past four years. “Our family has been participating in memory of my parents and we are already registered for this year’s event. It’s a great way to honour their legacy here in Meaford.”
The race has raised over $456,500 over the past 22 years for medical equipment at The Meaford Hospital.
For kids 12 and under that want to give running a try, come down to the harbour for a FREE run starting at 8:30. Thornbury Pools & Spas has donated super cool sunglasses for the first 125 kids registered to participate.
For those who are competitive runners or walkers the race starts at 9am and is a chip timed for those that want to track their times. However, the race is also a chance for those just wishing to enjoy the pleasure of strolling along the lovely shores of Georgian Bay while raising funds for the Meaford Hospital Foundation.
“We are a pet friendly event so please feel free to bring your fur babies with you! Don’t forget your doggy poop bags as cleaning up along the route is always appreciated. Water stations will be set up along the route for both run/walkers and your furry friends!” said organizers.
The Quench Buggy will be on site at the harbour if you wish to bring your refillable water jug for a refresh during the event as well.
The first 300 participants to register will receive a dry wick t-shirt, while your furry friends will get a Harbour Run bandana from Pet Connection in Meaford.
“We have some really neat prizes for the top fundraisers this year so be sure to ask family and friends to support your race!” said organizers.
The registration process is simple and can be done either online at www.mhfoundation.ca OR drop into Pharmasave in Thornbury, Runner’s Den in Owen Sound or the Bank of Montreal in Meaford to pick up a registration form or pledge sheet. There will also be registration the morning of the race between 7:45 and 8:45 a.m. as well as advance registration on Friday afternoon, July 13th at the Harbour Pavilion between 4 – 7 p.m.
This year both the top female and male runner will receive a $100 Gift Certificate to Runner’s Den in Owen Sound and our top female walker will receive a “Touch and Toes” package courtesy of The Falls Inn (Walters Falls), while the top male walker receives a $100 Gift Certificate to Knights’ Home Building Centre.
There are pledge based prizes for top fundraisers as well; a Bose Speaker donated by Bruce Power, an Autographed Owen Sound Attack jersey, Kayak/Sup for 2 certificate donated by Blue Surf, Elsie’s Diner gift cards, Motomaster Emergency Car Starter, Lift passes for 5 people for 2 days to Beaver Valley Ski Club, a Mini Photography Session from Krystal Klear Photography, CAA Travel Bag, Park Admission for 2 to Scenic Caves, Knights of Meaford hockey apparel and tickets and a $100 gift card to Squire Johns.
This year’s race is in support of The Meaford Hospital Foundation and the Harbour Run/Walk goal with a goal of $50,000 which will be designated to Diagnostic Imaging (X-Ray & MRI).
