Mother’s Day is just around the corner.
And for those who love to run, the Oceanside Mother’s Day 10k run is back again on May 13. It is organized by the Oceanside Running Club Association (ORCA).
You don’t have to be a mother to enter this race, which also features a 5k run/walk event. It is open to everyone from new runners to competitive runners.
The annual event offers two courses, awards, plenty of food and an abundance of draw prizes both for entrants and volunteers. The 10k run is a scenic course, part road and part trail, that winds through Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park and along the beautiful oceanfront.
According to Jill Davies of ORCA, the 10k course is the one to pick if you are a competitive or recreational runner. Medals and ribbons will be awarded to the first three in all the age divisions.
The 5K run/walk is back by popular request, said Davies. The course for this event loops through the Englishman River Estuary and is a combination of road and trail.
St Davies said this event will suit new runners seeking for a personal goal and also those who want to take more time and enjoy a shorter course. It’s also the course to choose if you are a walker or will be pushing a baby buggy or stroller. There will also be awards presented to the first three participants to cross the finish line.
Those who joined ORCA’s Learn to Run program are automatically registered to run the 5k event if they chose to do so. It’s a way to challenge the new runners and to get them to experience what it is like to be in a fun race event.
This popular Mother’s Day run also serves as fundraiser for the Parksville Haven Society. Donations are accepted and can be made through the registration process or on race day.
Davies added that ORCA is hoping that there will be enough funds raised to allow the club to make additional donations to Oceanside Track & Field and Forward House.
The cost to register now until May 10th before midnight is $30, and on race day it will be $40. Register online at www.raceroster.com.
Registrants are reminded that for safety, no dogs, bicycles, roller blades, headphones or earbuds are permitted on either course.
Davies said they are also looking for volunteers to help run the event. If you are interested in helping out, please email, barbara.j.low@gmail.com.For more event information visit www.orcarunning.ca/ or www.facebook.com/oceanside.race/