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Community Leaders

Aug 27 2024
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Creating Inclusive Events

By | Community Leaders, General | No Comments

How CRS Ensures Everyone Feels Welcome

Creating a welcoming environment for all participants is at the heart of Canada Running Series (CRS) mission. Recognizing the diverse needs of runners from various backgrounds, CRS has implemented several initiatives to ensure inclusivity and accessibility at their events. 

This article explores how CRS cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity and encourages participation from all community members.

Proactive Inclusion Policies 

CRS has established proactive inclusion policies that promote diversity and accessibility. These policies address the broad spectrum of participants’ needs, ensuring that everyone feels supported and valued.

  • Examples: CRS has developed policies that explicitly prohibit any form of discrimination and harassment. These are communicated through all event materials and are visible on our website.
  • Registration Adjustments: CRS offers registration options that are sensitive to gender diversity, including non-binary categories, and ensures that registration forms are respectful and inclusive of all participants.

Enhanced Accessibility Measures

CRS events are accessible to people of all abilities, incorporating specific measures to accommodate adaptive athletes and those with other needs.

  • Course Design: All CRS race courses are evaluated for accessibility, ensuring that they are free of barriers that could hinder participants.
  • Facilities: Accessible restrooms, changing areas, and race packet pick-up locations are standard at CRS events. 

Promoting Diverse Representation

Visibility and representation are key elements in CRS’s strategy to enhance inclusivity. Efforts are made to ensure that all groups are visibly represented in promotional activities and among event staff and volunteers.

  • Marketing Campaigns: CRS uses promotional materials that reflect the diversity of the community, including varied age groups, races, and abilities.
  • Diverse Teams: Recruitment strategies for staff and volunteers focus on diversity, ensuring that the event planning and execution team is as varied as the participants themselves.

Community Engagement and Feedback

CRS values the input of its community, using feedback to continually refine and improve its inclusivity efforts.

  • Community Consultations: Regular engagement with community groups and participants helps CRS understand diverse needs and expectations, guiding the planning process.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: After events, CRS actively seeks feedback specifically targeted at evaluating the inclusiveness of the event. This helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.

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Canada Running Series’ commitment to inclusivity is a cornerstone of its operations. Through thoughtful policies, careful planning, and open dialogue with participants, CRS ensures that its events are welcoming spaces for everyone. 

The goal is not only to organize races but to celebrate the diverse community that comes together to run, cheer, and support each other. Each CRS event is an opportunity to strengthen community ties and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect in the world of competitive running and beyond.

Nov 01 2023
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Beloved Canadian Olympic Coach Hugh Cameron Has Passed

By | Community Leaders, Elite Athletes | No Comments

By Paul Gains

One of Canada’s most successful distance running coaches Hugh Cameron passed away October 20th at the Amica Little Lake Retirement Home in Barrie, Ontario. He was 80.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years Nancy, three sons Mark, Rob and Paul and five grandchildren.

As the founder of both the Etobicoke Huskies and Newmarket Huskies track clubs, he was responsible for the development of literally hundreds of Canada’s most celebrated club runners, several of whom went on to represent this country at major international games. 

David Edge earned the silver medal for Canada at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh running a personal best of 2:11:08. He struggles to find adequate words to describe the relationship he had with Cameron. 

“I came from England and when you were in a race you were in a race not to hold hands but to win,” says Edge who also finished 6th at the 1983 Boston Marathon.  “That didn’t go over too well in Toronto. I wasn’t the most liked athlete but Hugh dealt with it. He guided me. In simpler terms, I owe so much to Hugh Cameron.”

Edge also represented Canada at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles along with another of Cameron’s charges, Sylvia Ruegger, who finished 8th in the inaugural women’s Olympic marathon. That is still the best performance by a Canadian woman in the Olympic marathon. 

Prior to their departure for Los Angeles, Cameron, who was also the Olympic marathon coach for those Games, hand-delivered fliers to all the residents along the club’s favourite training circuit in Etobicoke inviting them to view their final training session. Onlookers turned out to wish the pair well.

It was a typical gesture by Cameron who never took a penny for coaching. And he never appeared to favour one athlete’s performance over another. Ruegger went on to set a national marathon record of 2:28:36 which stood for 28 years.

Although Ruegger and Edge were internationally associated with Cameron, his first successful marathoner was Mike Dyon who, in his debut at the 1977 National Capital Marathon in Ottawa, emerged victorious with a time of 2:18:05.

“I was really the guinea pig because we did a 28 mile run three weeks before Ottawa on hills along Weston road,” Dyon remembers. “We didn’t know any better. He said ‘let’s just practice.’ I think we ran 2:34 or so for the marathon and he said ‘you are ready’.

Dyon eventually won Ottawa three times, lowered his personal best to 2:14:28 and would finish 9th in the 1982 Commonwealth Games for Canada. As Cameron’s health deteriorated Dyon’s commitment to his friend and mentor never wavered. He would bring books for Cameron’s wife Nancy to read to her husband. 

Born in Lethbridge, Alberta, Cameron worked for Kodak for 32 years mostly as Director of Human Resources. He helped Dyon obtain a summer job there. Moreover, the athletes were recipients of his extraordinary interpersonal skills.

Alison Wiley, who in 1983 earned the silver medal at the World Cross Country Championships and followed that up with an NCAA 3,000m title for Stanford University, sought Cameron upon her return to Toronto following graduation. She turned out to every club practice while working as a brand manager for Cadbury’s. Cameron’s support during this transitional period was strong.

‘I think he also probably sensed I was doing well in my career and moving up and he really fostered that,” Wiley reveals. “He knew me. He was helping me to be the best person I could be recognizing you were not always going to run at this intense level. 

“It was an interesting phase of my life and he was right there helping to shape it. I had an amazing father – and my mum and dad were great – they provided a loving home, a supportive home but I never had those conversations with my dad. They were with Hugh Cameron. Because he could relate the athlete to the business woman outside the track.”

Wiley became emotional remembering Cameron’s kindness to her and her family when her brother, also named Hugh, suffered an accident which left him paraplegic. 

“Hugh knew my brother but he never coached him,” she recalls, “ he would send him emails or call him. He would include him. Who does that? Once again such a deep thoughtful caring individual . My brother’s pain was his pain, was my pain. He reached out to people and that is really a beautiful trait.”

Among the athletes closest to Cameron was Dave Reid who remembers taking public transit to an Etobicoke Huskies workout one September night in 1975. Being a shy 12 year old, he watched the group from a distance then got on the bus and went home. After his father asked if he was going back for the next session he reluctantly agreed. From there the pair would forge an incredible relationship strengthened further when the Cameron family moved into the same neighbourhood. 

Reid would go on to set a Canadian interscholastic 1,500m record of 3:45.78  when he was in high school. Under Cameron’s tutelage he continued to improve representing Canada at three world cross country championships as well as the 1983 world athletics championships in Helsinki. In 1987, Reid set a Canadian senior 1,500m record of 3:37.84.

“He was coach of the Canadian team for the 1982 world cross country championships in Rome when I was a junior,” Reid recounts. “He had gone to every single athlete’s family and asked them to write letters to the athletes so they could open them up every day when they were in Rome. It was so they would feel comfortable and relaxed. Who does that?”

Reid would spend lots of time with Cameron’s family because of their close proximity. And when Reid hung up his racing shoes he got his start in coaching alongside Cameron. 

Coaching came naturally to Hugh Cameron according to his wife, Nancy, who said that besides coaching at Lakehead University in his 20’s, the seeds for a coaching career were sown much earlier. There was an oval in front of his house and he would organize races for kids.

“Hugh didn’t talk about his job at home,” she explains. “Sometimes I wish he had so I could share more in that. But I think he felt he wanted to maintain space between his job, his coaching and family.”

With a laugh she adds, ”I used to tease him that if I wasn’t also a runner he would be divorced.” 

Nancy is organizing a celebration of life at Northwest Barrie United Church November 18th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or organization close to your heart in Hugh’s honour.

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May 15 2023
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Meet Your ASICS Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Training Tips, Uncategorised, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

2023 Vancouver Half Marathon – ASICS PACER TEAM

 

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

As in previous years, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2023 ASICS Pacer Team at the Vancouver Half Marathon: Read More

May 18 2022
0

Meet Your ASICS Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Training Tips, Uncategorised, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

2022 Vancouver Half Marathon – ASICS PACER TEAM

 

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

As in previous years, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2022 ASICS Pacer Team at the Vancouver Half Marathon:

Pace Time: 1:30
Name: Ellis (@run.ellis.run)
Why Ellis is pacing:

Since getting into running I have completed 2 world marathon majors (my goal is to run all six) and have taken my half marathon time from 1:40 to under 1:16. Although traditionally focused on the racing part I’m excited about the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much and trade racing duties for pacing duties. Running has given me a purpose, a career, and ambition to set audacious goals. I would be honoured to help others reach their goals by pacing.

 

Pace Time: 1:30
Name: Humphrey (@Humphreyontherun)
Why Humphrey is pacing:

I want to help pace runners from my run club and the community!

 

 

 

Pace Time: 1:40
Name: Emily (@emilysmac)
Why Emily is pacing:

In 2018, I ran my first marathon and I have been hooked ever since! I love running and want to give back to the incredible running community here in Vancouver! ♥️🎉

 

 

Pace Time: 1:45
Name: Julie (@Northshorepelly )
Why Julie is pacing:

I am a mom of two and running is my happy place. The sport and local running community has given me so much – and I love giving back to it. I am an avid marathoner, but the half-marathon, in my opinion, is the absolute best race distance! I am so excited to help others achieve a personal goal they didn’t think possible. Let’s go!

 

Pace Time: 1:45
Name: Julia (@jhawkinss)
Why Julia is pacing:

I am a previous UBC Track athlete that specialized in heptathlons and jumps (aka nothing over 800) but in my late 20s I discovered my love for marathon training! I adore the Vancouver running community and also recognize the importance of a strong pacer. It would be my honour to show some runners their way to a new PB. 🙂

 

Pace Time: 1:50
Name: Jill (@Westonjill)
Why Jill is pacing:

I’ve always wanted to pace and help people reach their goals – plus I’m super steady! I used to be a run coach and trainer with lots of passion for the community. Let’s GOOOOO!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:00
Name: Kate (@coach.kate_fitness)
Why Kate is pacing:

My name is Kate and I’m one of runnings biggest fans! I am a personal trainer, physiotherapist and group fitness instructor – I am great at motivating people working towards a fitness goal. I have always dreamt of being a pacer as so many pacers have motivated me to reach my time goal when running. 🙂

 

 

Pace Time: 2:00
Name: Ese (@essxkayy)
Why Ese is pacing:

I love running. I love running events! I would love to be on the pacer team as I love connecting with the running community and pushing through self limitations and barriers with friends. I think it would be fun to help people meet or beat their goals and run alongside them while they do it.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:10
Name: Rabih (@striderzclub)
Why Rabih is pacing:

I’m a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor and running coach for the Striderz Club. Nothing makes me happier than helping and seeing runners crushing their goals and crossing the finish line within their target time. That’s why I want to be your pacer!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:10
Name: Karl (@karls20160815)
Why Karl is pacing:

I’m on my way to completing all six World Major Marathons! I would love to be a pacer at the Vancouver Half Marathon to motivate others & contribute to local race events like this.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:20
Name: Christy (@christybaker9779)
Why Christy is pacing:

Back for another year of Vancouver Half Marathon pacing! I am a mom of 2 and teach Physical Education at a West Van high school. I’d like to use this experience to encourage others to obtain their goals and to to inspire my students.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:20
Name: Harjinder (@Mrhdhaliwal )
Why Harjinder is pacing:

I’m a teacher that promotes active living. I have a running club at school and hopefully some of them will run their first half. If you’re looking to run a 2:20, I am responsible, energetic, and reliable!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:30
Name: Kat (@Katanacious )
Why Kat is pacing::

This is one of my favourite races. I have paced for Canada Running Series before and it is still one of my favourite running memories. I loved getting to talk to people as they ran their race and getting to support them. It was fun to make the race about cheering them on and helping them to reach their goals.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:30
Name: Shelley (@shelchen7)
Why Shelley is pacing:

As a proud member of  the Canada Running Series Community Team, I would love the opportunity to represent them while also allowing others to achieve their goals!

 

 

 

All Pacers will be outfitted in shoes & athletic apparel from:

Dec 19 2019
1

Ringing in the New Decade: Our Top 12 Moments of 2019

By | Community Leaders, Elite Athletes, General, Newsletter | No Comments

With the days flying off the calendar as we approach the new year (and new decade!) we’re taking a look back on our top moments of 2019.

This year was a special one for CRS as we celebrated our 30th edition as an organization. And since we couldn’t pick just ten moments, given the holiday spirit, we decided to go for a “12 Days of Christmas” style list.

We’ll highlight one moment each day until 2020 on our social channels. But if you’ve got time for some reading here they are all at once:

Moment #1 – Highest fundraising year EVER

Closing the fundraising till at $$6,840,929, 2019 was our highest fundraising year yet across all events.  

This one also goes out to everyone who runs and raises funds for a cause. This has truly been a community effort and we’re thankful to run with those who give back to their local communities.  

Moment #2 – Both all-comers records broken at TOwaterfront42K 

This year, both the men’s and women’s all-comers records were broken by Philemon Rono in a time of 2:05:00 and by Magdalyne Masai-Robertson in a time of 2:22:16 

These times were also the fastest marathons run on North American soil in 2019. 

Congratulations Philemon and Magz!  

Moment #3 – Sending both Canadian TOwaterfront42K champions to Tokyo 2020

In addition to the honour of hosting the Canadian Marathon Trials, both men’s and women’s Canadian Champions of TOwaterfront42K qualified for Tokyo2020.    

Both Trevor and Dayna reached the qualifying time standard and are headed to Tokyo next year as part of Team Canada. 

Moment #4 – Most Guinness World Records broken at TOwaterfront42K this year 

Did you know that this year we had a record-breaking number of record-breakers! That’s right. Officially, 14 Guiness World Records were broken at this year’s @ TOwaterfront42K. 

Congratulations to all the new GWR record holders in 2019!  

Moment #5 – New brand/logo for TOwaterfront42K  

To help celebrate the 30th Edition of the Canada Running Series and Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon event we refreshed our look and created an entirely new social identity with the help of Origin agency. 

You may have noticed we’re no longer using the STWM hashtag… this is intentional. As we welcome more and more international runners each year we moved to a tag and identity that more clearly indicate what our event is all about!  

In 2019 we gave a big welcome to our new identity! Welcome, #TOwaterfront42K  

Moment #6 – The 30th edition of CRS 

We’re halfway there! 

Tied to our rebrand, for us, Moment #6 of 2019 was celebrating our 30th Edition, not only of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, but of the entire Canada Running Series! 

For 30 years now we have been celebrating the community of running in Canada and working to get Canadian runners the recognition they deserve.  

Athletes of all ages and abilities have been enjoying Canada Running Series events for over 30 years now and will continue to do so for many years to come.  

Thank you to everyone who has run in our events or helped us in any capacity over the years.  

We’re so happy for the opportunity of making your running dreams come true! 

Moment #7 – Sharing life events with runners at the lululemon Toronto 10K 

Yes, we have events other than TOwaterfront42k 😉 they’re freakin’ awesome, too!  

We’ve been fortunate to have lululemon as an amazing race partner at the Toronto 10K for the past few years and this year, we were able to provide the gorgeous and most inspirational setting where two runners celebrated a very important life moment…  

Some were lucky enough to witness a PROPOSAL at the step and repeat backdrop after the 10K this past June. Mango Peeler, Toronto artist-athlete, created a stunning mural for the event which was the perfect setting for this happy couple.  

Runners enjoyed a 10K race along the waterfront with cheer stations every 1K and themed donuts at the end.  

Another one bites the donut (dust). 

Moment #8 – Inspirational words from Charlie Dark

It was an honour to have Charlie Dark, global lululemon ambassador and run crew founder, join us to share some inspirational messages at the lululemon Toronto 10K.  

Charlie started running around 2006, when he was not confident enough to go to a gym on his own. He ran in the dark until his confidence grew. Now it has grown so much that he is able to travel to events and inspire other runners, and empower young people, to achieve their goals.  

It is a pleasure to know Charlie and always a delight to hear him speak.

  

Moment #9 – Charity Challenge partner wins highest fundraising category, nationally

Fountain of Love and Life celebrated their 10-year anniversary as an official charity partner of the Scotiabank Charity Challenge at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

They had raised $451,295.32 this year, winning the highest fundraising charity category not only in Toronto, but nationally across 6 Scotiabank Charity Challenges in Canada.

To date, they have raised a total of $2,209,935.27

Moment #10 – The male champions of CRS 

Let’s take a moment to recognize all the (M) champions from our 8 races across Canada this year. 

  1. Spring Run-Off – High Park, Toronto – Tristan Woodfine * 
  2. 21K de Montreal – Parc Jean Drapeau, Montreal – Tristan Woodfine 
  3. Toronto 10K – Toronto Waterfront – Jean Marie Vianney  
  4. Edmonton 10K – Edmonton, AB – Leonard Chesoo 
  5. Vancouver Half-Marathon – Vancouver, BC – Benjamin Preisner 
  6. Eastside 10K – Vancouver, BC – Evan Esselink
  7. ZooRun – Toronto Zoo – Wendimu Adamu  
  8. Toronto Waterfront Marathon – Toronto, ON – Trevor Hofbauer 

Thanks for running with us and for flying through that finishing tape.  

*Tristan is also the overall series winner of 2019.

Moment #11 – The female champions of CRS 

Let’s take another moment to recognize the female champions of CRS events in 2019. 

  1. Spring Run-Off – High Park, Toronto – Sarah Inglis 
  2. 21K de Montreal – Parc Jean Drapeau, Montreal – Anne-Marie Comeau
  3. Toronto 10K – Toronto Waterfront – Nyirarukundo Salome 
  4. Edmonton 10K – Edmonton, AB – Natasha Wodak 
  5. Vancouver Half-Marathon – Vancouver, BC – Natasha Wodak 
  6. Eastside 10K – Vancouver, BC – Malindi Elmore 
  7. ZooRun – Toronto Zoo – Rachel Hannah *  
  8. Toronto Waterfront Marathon – Toronto, ON – Dayna Pidhoresky

Thanks for running with us and for flying through that finishing tape.  

*Rachel is also the overall series winner of 2019.

Moment #12 – Most participants EVER in 2019! 

CRS had the most participants EVER (across all our events) in 2019. 

With a whopping 69,045 participants across our series of events, this one is all on YOU. So, thanks for making this year of running in Canada a great one <3  

—

That’s all for now, folks.  

Thanks for all the good times this year. Have a happy and safe New Years and we’ll see you in 2020!  ❤️

Aug 22 2019
0

Meet Your #UAeastside10K Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

We’re excited to announce your 2019 Under Armour Eastside 10K Pacer team! This crew has been hand-picked from dozens of applications to ensure our runners are set-up to hit PBs and run their best on September 14th. Check them out, pick your favourite, and run with them on race day!

Pace Time: 40 minutes

Name: Vivian (@vdavidsonc)

A little about Vivian:

I love running and helping people so pacing allows me to combine both of these passions! I get a high helping people cross the finish line at a goal time and cheering/supporting them in the process.

 

Pace Time: 40 minutes

Name: Thomas (@tlane101)

A little about Thomas:

I was a first time pacer for West Van Run 5Km this year. I got a real buzz from the experience & looking forward to bringing that energy to the UA Eastside 10K!

 

Pace Time: 45 minutes

Name: Tommy (@looktommyrun)

A little about Tommy:

I ran the race last year and it was really fun. I paced a friend to a PR and would love to help runners in the community reach their goals for this race!

 

Pace Time: 45 minutes

Name: Liam (@liam_baird)

A Little about Liam:

I am extremely passionate about running, and absolutely love pacing others to reach their own goals. I know the course extremely well and know exactly how to help others run it too! We’ve all had a Pacer help us through a tough leg of a race before, and I want to return the favour.

 

Pace Time: 50 minutes

Name: Dora (@doravelazquez27)

A little about Dora:

I love this race but it’s a very difficult course to get a crazy good PB. If I don’t have to die and pace a group of chilled time it be more fun for me.

 

Pace Time: 50 minutes

Name: Jonathan (@jonathanichikawa)

A little about Jonathan:

I enjoy running and racing, and would like to help others celebrate their goals.

 

 

Pace Time: 55 minutes

Name: Melissa (@run.raven.run)

A Little about Melissa:

I enjoy running for fun and competition. I currently compete in road races from 5k to Marathon distance. I completed the Boston Marathon in April and will be running the Chicago Marathon this October. I have raced the Eastside 10k for the past three consecutive years and am excited to be a pacer this year!

 

Pace Time: 55 minutes

Name: Julie (@northshorepelly)

A little about Julie:

Running is my one true love. My one constant in life through ups and downs. It has given me so much and I love giving back to it. After a journey spanning almost a decade, I finally reached my running bucket list goal and qualified for the Boston Marathon. Until I run that on 4/20/2020, I’m enjoying doing shorter distance races and enjoying the running community.

 

Pace Time: 60 minutes

Name: Cassie (@Cassiepaul26.2)

A little about Cassie:

Running is my passion and I would love to be able to give back and help others achieve a time goal.

 

 

Pace Time: 60 minutes

Name: Gary (@northwestone_fixie)

A little about Gary:

I’ve been running for over 3 years now and am looking forward to pacing some runners. I train with mile2marathon and being part of it has made me stronger and faster…as of now am chasing my goal to qualify for Boston Marathon next year. In the meantime, it’s an honour to be a pacer for this awesome race.

 

Pace Time: 65 minutes

Name: Hannah (@itsfoggin)

A little about Hannah:

My friends’ comments on my race photos speak to it: “you look so happy!” It brings me joy to run, to explore my city, to have running be a place of deep conversation with friends or some training days to focus on nothing but the sounds of my feet on the ground and the waves hitting rocks along the Vancouver seawall. I run with a smile on my face and heart, and, after the pacers who have helped me with my PBs, I’d love to pair it with another runner’s 10k goal.

 

Pace Time: 65 minutes

Name: Kelvin

A little about Kelvin:

I picked up running while at UBC as stress relief and a way of increasing fitness and it turned into a bigger hobby than I expected. Plenty of encouragement have come my way from pacers and even other runners and probably helped me just narrowly get goal times.

 

Pace Time: 70 minutes

Name: Aleya (@aleyatea)

A little about Aleya:

I was a sprinter through high school and university and just started running half marathons five years ago as a fundraiser for my work. This year I led a training group for my volunteers who were running the Scotia 5K.

 

Pace Time: 70 minutes

Name: Jeannine (@jeannineavelino)

A little about Jeannine:

I’m an avid road and trail runner who loves to help people achieve their goals. I’ve paced West Van Run Summer twice successfully and really enjoy motivating people to do their best.

 

Pace Time: 75 minutes

Name: Rebecca (@reggiesaurusbex)

A little about Rebecca:

I’ve been running about 6 years now, but moving to Vancouver 2 years ago and getting involved in the running community lead to me actually loving running and starting to reach my potential. I want to give back to the running community while helping others meet their own goals

 

Pace Time: 75 minutes

Name: Mable

A little about Mable:

Avid runner and foodie! I love the camaraderie of the running community and how everyone helps and encourages each other. Being a pacer allows me to be part of the action while still doing what I love…encouraging others!

 

All Pacers will be outfitted in shoes & athletic apparel from:

May 14 2019
0

Meet Your Saucony Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

New this year, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2019 Saucony Pacer Team at the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon:

Pace Time: 1:30

Name: Lucas (@lusocio)

A little about Lucas:

I’m excited to be pacing the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon for the first time. After a brief break from running to enjoy my first year of fatherhood, I’m back and looking forward to the New York marathon this November. Good luck to all runners.

 

Pace Time: 1:35

Name: Philip (@philfinlayson)

A little about Philip:

I’m a born-again runner who loves going fast and also loves helping others race well, through good preparation and steady pacing.  I look forward to meeting you on race day!

 

Pace Time: 1:40

Name: Raymond (@raysmond)

A little about Raymond:

Long time runner, first time pacer. I’ve always respected the dedication of the race pacers, and now it’s time to help other reach their PB. Follow me to the finish line at this year’s half marathon.

 

Pace Time: 1:45

Name: Dan (@mrdanoleary)

A Little about Dan:

In a sport where I always run for myself, I want to give something back and support the goals of others. This race has people of all paces and levels, and it always makes me so happy to see them achieve their goals and set PBs.

 

Pace Time: 1:45

Name: Patrick (@pswaddleme)

A little about Patrick:

I am an enthusiastic runner always looking to embrace Vancouver’s running community in order to reach my goals, including that elusive Boston Qualification. I train with Mile2Marathon, drop by EVRC some Mondays, and have helped lead some of the smaller clinics at Running Room.  I am so excited to pace my first race and hopefully help you cruise to a shiny new PB!

 

Pace Time: 1:50

Name: Jonathan (@flyingdutchman125)

A little about Jonathan:

I did track, road and cross country throughout my school career, with some great achievements. In adulthood, I’ve completed 3 marathons, 2 ultras and more halfs than I can count. I’m excited to help others achieve their goals on race day!

 

Pace Time: 1:55

Name: Lydia (@l.tay)

A Little about Lydia:

I rediscovered running three years ago and haven’t looked back. You’ll find me on the seawall logging KMs for my next race or dropping in at my local run club to give some high fives (VRC Flight Crew and East Van Run Club). In 2019, I’m aiming to complete my 7th half marathon and 3rd marathon – pacing some friends along the way.

 

Pace Time: 2:00

Name: Kathryn

A little about Kathryn:

I am super pumped to be pacing the 2:00 group for 2019! I’ve always been a runner but started taking it more seriously when I moved to Vancouver over 10 years ago. My favourite places to run are Stanley Park and the seawall, hands down! I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone I will be running with. Let’s do this!

 

Pace Time: 2:00

Name: Mel (@melsays)

A little about Mel:

Super stoked to be pacing this year’s Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon. Last year, I had the pleasure of running the course for the first time and was able to make my goal time thanks to the race’s pacers. I’m thrilled to be able to do the same for this year’s participants!

 

Pace Time: 2:05

Name: Navaz (@navaz.be.fit)

A little about Navaz:

I (only) started running in January of 2018. My goal was to complete my first half marathon before turning 30. Since then I have completed two half marathons, two 47km challenges and a handful of other races. The running community in the lower mainland is outstanding and I’ve had the pleasure to meet and become friends with such positive and inspiring people.

 

Pace Time: 2:10

Name: Chantelle (@chantelle_swimbikerun)

A little about Chantelle:

My name is Chantelle and although I compete primarily in triathlons now, I still dabble from time to time in running races (SVHM will be my 20th half marathon and third time pacing this wonderful race).

 

Pace Time: 2:15

Name: Sean (@runningbeernerd)

A little about Sean:

I got into running later at around 40 years old – perhaps a midlife crisis? I have been having lots of fun learning, getting better, and helping others do the same! I lead a local running store half marathon run group and love watching the improvements of those both new to the distance as well as the more experienced runners.

 

Pace Time: 2:20

Name: Brenda (@jus_tri_it)

A little about Brenda:

I did my first half marathon at 47 years of age & fell in love with this event. I’ve been part of running groups for the last two years and know how motivating and fun they can be. I’d like to give back to this sport I’ve fallen in love with & would hope I can help those running around me to feel proud during the race!

 

Pace Time: 2:25

Name: Eric (@heyrickie)

A little about Eric:

I’ve run 20+ half marathons over the last 12 years. I’ve heard of others signing up as pacers and thought I should give that a try.

 

Pace Time: 2:30

Name: Amy (@amybeeman)

A little about Amy:

This will be my 25th half marathon, and my first time pacing! Most my training runs come in the form of chasing my 8 year old twins around. It will be a pretty amazing feeling to get some runners (especially those doing their first half) across the finish line.

 

All Pacers will be outfitted in shoes & athletic apparel from:

May 07 2018
0

Meet Your #scotiahalf Pacers!

By | Community Leaders, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

We had an incredibly strong group of applications for our pacer positions this year, and we’re very excited to announce your 2018 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon Pacers!

 

Pace Time: 2hr 30min

Name: Susan

A little about Susan:

“I started running with my first Learn-to-Run clinic in July 2012, and did my first half marathon in November 2013. Since then I’ve done 10 half marathons.  I have attempted to do the Scotia Half a few times, but scheduling and injury derailed my plans. ”

“I paced my first half marathon last year and had a fantastic time, so I decided to do it again this year; and when Canada Running Series asked for pacing volunteers, I jumped at the chance.  I am looking forward to bringing other racers across the finish line!”

 

Pace Time: 2hr 30min

Name: Amanda

A little about Amanda:

“My name is Amanda and I was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. My passion for running started in high school and I’ve completed several races ranging from 10k to full marathons mainly in BC, but also in the US and Ireland. I’m excited to serve as a pacer for the 2018 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon because I can’t wait to help you crush your goals! Whether your goal is to just finish the race or get a new personal best, I’ll be there with you every step of the way!”

 

Pace Time: 2hr 15min

Name: Meaghan

A little about Meaghan:

Meaghan started running in 2013 when her brother bet her on who could out run who at a 10K race (this is now an annual tradition!). Since then, Meaghan has run countless 10KM events, 11 half marathons and is currently training for her first full marathon. She is very excited to pace the 2:15 Scotiabank Half Marathon group and to help fellow runners crush their goals. When not out running with her husband James and their chocolate labrador Gus, you can find Meaghan at the local coffee shops or craft breweries.

 

Pace Time: 2hr 15min

Name: Rose

A little about Rose:

“Hi there! My name is Rose and I am super excited to be a pacer for the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon! I code most of my day away, so running is a welcome break for my brain and body. The Scotiabank Vancouver half marathon was my first half marathon and why I am so happy to be a pacer this year. Pacers have pushed me to PBs and finishes that I doubt I could have reached alone. I am very excited to help others reach their personal running goals.”

 

Pace Time: 2hr

Name: Paul

A little about Paul:

My name is Paul and I’m super excited to be the 2:00:00 pacer for the SVHM. I love setting HAGs (i.e. harry audacious goals) and working relentlessly to achieve them. In 2018, I’ll run the Boston, Berlin, and Chicago marathons. By achieving my HAGs, I aim to both role model and inspire my kids and others to set lofty goals and achieve them. As a SVHM pacer, I will encourage others by running alongside them and motivating them to achieve their own HAGs on what is one of the most stunningly beautiful courses.

 

Pace Time: 2hr

Name: Jaylene

A little about Jaylene:

“In the last five years I have developed a love and appreciation  for running and created a lifestyle around it. With the help of mentors in the Running community that have challenged me and with my sense of determination I have completed my goal in running the Boston Marathon in 2017. ”

“Giving back to the running community has always been important to me. Helping fellow runners push themselves to meet new goals gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride as I give back to the community. ”

 

Pace Time: 1hr 45min

Name: Philip

A little about Philip:

“Hello!  I am Phil Finlayson and I have the privilege of pacing the 1:45 group at the 2018 Scotiabank Half Marathon.  This will be my fifth time running in this event.  My favourite distances are 10K and Half Marathon, though I will have just finished my 3rdMarathon before we meet at the start line.  You can find me sharing my love of running with the North Burnaby Runners, Phoenix Running Club, Sun Run Clinics and sometimes even with crews west of Boundary Rd.”

 

Pace Time: 1hr 45min

Name: Dan

A little about Dan:

Originally from the UK, Dan ran his first 10k in London back in 2001. He didn’t get back into it until 2013 when he joined a local run group (at Rackets & Runners) to improve his distance and find a supportive run community. You can find Dan at road races of many distances; he’s lost count of how many, but the half is still his favourite. He’s also competed in 12 triathlons of all distances except the full Ironman; that’s his main focus for this year, as he’ll be competing at Ironman Canada in July. He’s looking forward to working to help others meet their goals at this year’s race!