By Nicholas Mizera
TORONTO. March 28th 2015. For one father-son duo, what began as a fun way to get some exercise evolved into an annual tradition involving bonding, suits and a race up one notoriously steep hill.
Greg Stephanian and his son Jason have taken part in Harry’s Spring Run-Off every year since 2010. As Toronto’s oldest continually-held road race, Harry’s takes participants on a run through High Park in support of Prostate Cancer research at The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. It’s a challenging race to the finish for elite athletes, but for the Stephanians, it’s more about the good cause and community feel that first inspired them to join up.
“The costume portion of it also adds to the fun,” said Greg. “How many chances do you get to run a race all put together in a suit?”
The season opener attracts some 4,000 runners and walkers, many dressed up in the spirit of the race’s sponsor, Harry Rosen. Jason determined to run his first Harry’s dressed to the nines after seeing a subway poster featuring a dapper runner. He convinced his power-walking father to do the same, and a tradition was born.
“It may make it more difficult, but it definitely makes it more fun,” said Jason.
Greg and Jason started out wearing clothes they were comfortable mussing up, like a 30-year-old suit handed down from a relative. Since then, they’ve taken to the starting block decked out in bowties, tuxedos and even a Prince Charming costume one year, earning them multiple spots on our list of the race’s best dressed runners.
Jason encourages other runners to dress up, but advises them not to worry too much about race results. “I personally feel that’s not what this race is about,” he said. “If I were trying to go for a personal best, I wouldn’t be doing it in a tuxedo.”
While the Stephanians’ sense of style certainly makes them look effortless, the course veterans agree that Harry’s hilly route can be a handful at times. The final 600-metre sprint up Spring Road Hill just before the finish line is considered by many the toughest leg of the race — and even tougher in a suit. Regardless, it’s Jason’s favourite part thanks to spectators who gather there to applaud runners to the end.
“Every single time I’ve made that corner, there’s always someone who makes a comment about how I’m dressed,” said Jason. “It’s really motivating to have someone to point you out and cheer you on as you reach that last 100 metres.”
When the going gets tough, Greg advises participants to take the obstacle one step at a time. “You can’t think about the end because you’re not there yet, so you have to concentrate on what you’re doing right at the time,” he said.
Once you do get there, conquering that final crest and crossing the finish line is a moment that never gets old. For at least two generations of Stephanians, however, the opportunity to spend time together is just as important as the medal at the end.
“One of my favourite memories is just sharing the race with Jason,” said Greg. “It’s a fun thing to do and I’m glad that I can share it.
Join Greg and Jason next week on Saturday April 4th at Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8K & 5K! Online registration closes Sunday March 29th at midnight, so sign up now to secure your spot at the start line. Remember to come dressed in your best as we will have prizes for the most stylish runners!
