Events

Feet Take Flight at the Eighth Annual RCAF Run

The eighth annual RCAF Run will bring together RCAF culture with fitness for a day of family fun, a day “where feet take flight.”

On June 5, avid racers will taste the unique flavour of the RCAF as they run directly beside CAF aircrafts like the CC-130 Hercules on a course that runs parallel to the runways of Winnipeg’s James Richardson International Airport.

To top it off, the CAF Snowbirds (431 Air Demonstration Squadron) will grace the race with a fly past over 17 Wing as the race kicks off at 9 a.m.

Chris Merrithew, a committee member of the race since its inception eight years ago and now race co-ordinator, says being a part of the race has been fulfilling and rewarding.

“It is always rewarding to see all members young and old coming together and supporting each other to accomplish their goal of achieving their best while supporting these great causes. There is no better feeling than seeing the smile on the participants face as they cross the finish line knowing that they overcame their challenge and fulfilled their goal,” said Merrithew, Sports Coordinator, CFMWS Personnel Support Programs, 17 Wing Winnipeg.

The RCAF Run includes events for passionate runners, fitness fanatics and families. Individuals wanting to qualify for other running events can register for Athletics Canada certified courses in the half-marathon, individual or two-person relay, the 10-km race, and the 5-km race. Families can register for the 3-km walk/run, which starts at 11:00 a.m.

The run also features special activities for children to enjoy at the RCAF Run Village while youth, from ages 12 to 18, can test themselves or duel a friend at the Youth Fitness Challenge. Younger children can enjoy games and activities at the Children’s Festival.

“The atmosphere is amazing as you can feel the excitement by all members who are a part of the event. The many sights and sounds make this an unforgettable event. Right from the moment the RCAF Pipes and Drums band lead the runners to the start line to the exciting flypast start by our own renowned RCAF Snowbirds to the run down the flight line with a dazzling array of aircraft and culminating with a sprint to the finish line amid the cheers of all the supporters. There are also numerous RCAF Run activities to engage the youth and families that inspire physical activity, healthy living and that provide family friendly entertainment,” commented Merrithew.

Half of the proceeds raised through registration fees and donations will go to the Military Families Fund with the other half donated to Soldier On.

“The opportunity to raise money for our two important causes the Soldier On program and the Military Families Fund was the main reason for getting involved in this great event. It is an honour to work beside members who will sacrifice their lives for other Canadians so I felt this was an opportunity to give back to those members. Funds raised through registration and sponsorship will support ill and injured soldiers and military families through these two great causes,” said Merrithew.

The 2016 RCAF Run will be held Sunday, June 5 with an opening ceremony at 8:30 a.m. The first race of the day, the half marathon, will begin at 9 a.m.

The deadline for registration for all timed races is May 30.

For more information or to register visit the RCAF Run website.

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Mishall Rehman

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Mishall is a freelance journalist pursuing her passion for writing in her new homeland Canada. She currently lives in Trenton, ON with her husband.

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