Brightshores Meaford Hospital Foundation has announced the 30th anniversary of the Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk, taking place on Saturday, July 11, 2026. This milestone year promises to be one of the most memorable yet, as hundreds of runners, walkers, families with strollers, and even some four-legged friends make their way through downtown Meaford and along the picturesque harbourfront.
For three decades, this event has brought residents and visitors together in support of the Foundation with the goal of keeping exceptional healthcare in our community. More than 500 participants took part last year. For the past 29 years, the run has supported the Brightshores Meaford Hospital Foundation thanks to the vision of Brian Renken, who took over what was then known as the Big Apple Race, and in 1997 transformed it into a fundraiser for the community to support local healthcare at Brightshores Meaford Hospital.
All proceeds from sponsorships, registration fees, pledges, and donations directly support Brightshores Meaford Hospital. In 2024-2025, the hospital recorded over 14,000 emergency department visits, conducted more than 587,000 lab tests, and performed over 2,000 day surgeries—a powerful reminder of how essential local access to care truly is.
This year, the Foundation aims to raise $100,000 in support of the Emergency Department Revitalization Campaign, ensuring modern, responsive, and accessible emergency care for years to come.
As part of this special anniversary celebration, the Foundation has announced Sauriol Medicine Professional Corporation as the Title Sponsor for the 30th Anniversary Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk. A proud Meaford resident, emergency physician at Brightshores Meaford Hospital, and dedicated family doctor, Dr. Nathalie Sauriol has long been a steadfast champion of both the Harbour Run/Walk and Brightshores Meaford Hospital Foundation. Her continued leadership and generosity reflect her deep commitment to strengthening local healthcare and supporting the community she calls home.
“We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Sauriol for her extraordinary dedication to Meaford and to our hospital,” said Vince Rogers, Executive Director of Brightshores Meaford Hospital Foundation. “Her support embodies the spirit of this event and the heart of our community.”
So lace up your sneakers, gather your friends and family, and get ready to support the 30th Anniversary of the Meaford Harbour 5k Run/Walk.
Registration opens March 1. Register early and take advantage of early-bird pricing until April 30. For details, visit mhfoundation.ca or contact crees@brightshores.ca.
