Get Your Run On!
Remember those New Year’s resolutions to be more active and try new things? Well, here’s your chance to do both: sign up for a run! There are some great spring runs happening in Vancouver. Here are 5 fun suggestions, whether you want to sign up on your own, or try one with the family.
2017 Dash for Dogs (http://www.dashfordogs.ca/)
Saturday, February 18th
This is a guided 10km, 5km or 2km run or walk through Stanley Park with proceeds going to BC and Alberta Guide Dogs. After the run there will be a social event with pancakes, prizes, and music! Leashed dogs are, of course, welcome!
Hot Chocolate Run (http://www.tryevents.ca/try_events_vancouvers_hot_chocolate_run.htm)
Saturday, March 4th
This is a great run for the whole family! There is a 0.65km Fun Run for all ages and also 5km and 10.4km distances if you’d like to challenge yourself. And there are Baby Stroller categories in the 5km and 10.4km distances! When you cross the finish line you’ll receive a medal and an official Finisher’s Vancouver Hot Chocolate Run mug. Proceeds from the run support The BC Centre for Ability.
West Van Run (http://www.westvanrun.com/)
March 4th and 5th
With two days of running, there is a distance for everyone. Sign up for the 10km or 5km runs or the 1km Kids Run. This year’s theme is Superheroes so grab your mask, your cape and your running shoes! Plus, two days of running means two days of Post-Sweat Parties at the Beach House Restaurant.
BMO St. Patrick’s Day 5K (http://www.stpatricks5k.com/)
Saturday, March 18th
Put a little Irish in your step for the 5km run through scenic Stanley Park. It’s a great flat course for the kids. And for the parents: there’s a Granville Island Brewing After Party at the finish line! Green beer, good food, a DJ and lots of fun. Net proceeds from the race go to support the Canadian Diabetes Association.
The Vancouver Sun Run (http://www.vancouversun.com/sunrun/index.html)
April 23rd
Arguably Vancouver’s most famous run! The Vancouver Sun Run has been Canada’s largest 10km road race since its inception in 1985 and is now the 3rd largest timed 10km in the world. There is also a 2.5km Mini Sun Run for the kids if you’d like to try a shorter distance. Charity partners for the Sun Run include BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, BC SPCA, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon, BC Cancer Foundation and WE Charity.
What are your favourite family runs?
Harriet Fancott is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vancouver Mom. She has over 20 years experience in the arts, tech and mom-based blogging arenas. She lives in East Vancouver with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring all that Vancouver has to offer from festivals and events to playgrounds and beaches to sushi and ice cream (although not together).