By Lynne Bermel
Ottawa, Ontario (August 26, 2008) -- The gun will go off to mark the start of the Canada Army Run on Sunday, September 21 and organizers are expecting record numbers at the inaugural event.
The Run, which is styled after the highly successful Marine Corps Marathon and the U.S. Army Ten Miler, includes a 5k and Half Marathon which will start and finish near City Hall and National Defence Headquarters in the city’s core. All proceeds from the Run will go towards supporting Canada’s injured soldiers and the Military Families Fund.
“The Run has created quite a buzz in the Ottawa running community,” says Run Director Major Chris Horeczy. “Many area athletes have been to Washington for the Marine Corps Marathon and have experienced the unique race atmosphere and raw emotion of that event. We plan to provide that same experience here in Ottawa.”
Ottawa’s mayor, Larry O’Brien will be lining up for the 5k, as will Canada’s Minister of Defence, Peter MacKay. General Walt Natynczyk, Chief of Defence Staff, will also be taking part, as will Canada’s former top general, Rick Hillier, along with thousands of others.
The Run will also feature a salute to Canada’s injured soldiers. Some who have been injured in Afghanistan will be on the start line where they will get a special early departure.
All finishers receive a commemorative race t-shirt as well as a camouflage kit bag, special race bib and dog tag finisher’s medal. To register, and for more information, visit: ArmyRun.ca.
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