Race supports Canadian Forces and their families
THE ANNUAL ARMY Run was held in Ottawa this weekend, attracting over 16,000 runners and rollers who participated in the half marathon and 5K races. First held in 2008, the event has a rich history of bringing together Army and non-army participants to support the Canadian Forces.
“The Canada Army Run was created four years ago as a way for the military to thank Canadians for their support,” said Commander of the Canadian Army, Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin. “What has become clear, however, is that Canadians also want to thank the men and women of the Canadian Forces for all they do at home and abroad, and we sincerely appreciate that.”
The Army Run is the fasting growing race in Canada and the second largest running event in Ottawa. Many University of Ottawa students choose to participate in the Army Run, either for fun or the competition.
“It was my first race as part of the Gee-Gees and representing the university was an awesome experience,” said Eric Albert, a fourth-year history and political science student.
Albert explained in an interview with the Fulcrum that, for him, the race wasn’t about getting the fastest time.
“I thought I could show some support to the Army. I did it three years in a row because of Michael Bergeron, a good friend of mine, and a former U of O student in the … Canadian navy I thought he’d appreciate it.”
Army Run organizers are excited about the future of the event as it continues to grown.
“This event has struck a chord with Canadians,” said Major Luc Frenette, Army Run director. “Participation has more than doubled in just four years. Going forward, we will continue to use this event as a way to bring Canadians and those who serve them together in the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect and to raise monies for two important causes: Soldier On and the Military Families Fund.”
Soldier On directly supports ill or injured Canadian Forces personnel by providing services that give these members more independence in their lives. They also promote active participation in physical fitness and healthy living. The Military Families Fund assists members of the Canadian Forces and their families by providing long-term support and aid during short-term emergencies. Ben Howe, a U of O public and international affairs graduate student, expressed how proud he was to take part in the race.
“It is just a great experience getting to run alongside people that have given so much for their country,” said Howe. “I see people who are single or double amputee just soldiering on, [and it] helps push me to not stop and go faster, when they are giving it everything they’ve got.”
—Christopher Radojewski
