(The SnapHappy Photographer)

By Alessia Proietti

September 8

Red Deer’s 32nd annual Harvest Run welcomes families with free admission for kids under 10

Mar 15, 2024 | 4:20 PM

It’s truly a family-affair this year at Red Deer’s 32^nd annual Harvest Run with free admission for children 10 and under.

On September 8 from 9 – 11 a.m., the 3km walk/run and 8km run will begin in Capstone and span throughout Red Deer’s signature trail system. Kids under 10 years old can join the shorter walk/run for free.

“We are proud to acknowledge that over 31 years of an annually repeated event, the Harvest Run has established itself as a popular family and friends running festivity in central Alberta. This achievement is a result of our long-term dedication to our community,” said Otto Stepanik, Head of the Harvest Run Committee.

Stepanik says the 2023 run was successful in promoting their goal of active living in central Alberta, with 70 more participants than the year prior for a total of 250 runners.

He says the increasing numbers are soon reaching pre-pandemic numbers of over 300 participants. Even though there are more runs and events for residents to choose from, he hopes to see registrations in the 300s this year.

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Also new this year are improved finisher medals for all participants as a reminder of their accomplishment.

“We are hoping to prepare some things to make our finishing area experience more enjoyable with a great atmosphere, yummy food and drinks, and great door prizes from our generous prize donors,” he said, adding that cash prizes will once again be given to the first three male and female winners of the 8km run.

Stepanik said the event would not be possible without the generous sponsors, enabling them to keep registration fees the same as last year, and the volunteers who run the event.

Surplus funds are also given to young runners through their Red Deer Runners Athletic Bursary. Applications are welcome throughout the year from local young runners to pursue competitions are higher levels, including internationally. Stepanik says three athletes were awarded bursaries at last year’s run.

Stepanik says he hopes there will be great weather for participants to have the most enjoyable day with their loved ones in a friendly atmosphere.

“We are hoping that by preparing this event, it’s something where people can focus on and train for,” he said, “[and] give them something to work on for themselves. To make their living even more active and healthier.”

Until May 31, registration will be $35 for the 3km run and $50 for the 8km, which includes a long sleeve shirt. Prices change following and tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.

(Supplied)

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