Registration is now open for the fourth annual Legacy Run to End Family Violence.
“It’s a great opportunity for people to be part of something big,” said Laurie Jacob-Toews, a member of the planning committee. “Family violence is prevalent in our community and something that we all need to play a role in supporting…. This is a great way for people to help be part of it, to raise awareness [and] help raise funds.”
According to Jacob-Toews, the April 19 run is not only meant to raise awareness about the issue of family violence, but also draw attention to the resources and organizations available to help those impacted. She added, family violence often leaves those affected feeling alone and unsure of where to turn.
“I think the more we can talk about it and the more we can let people know there are supports available, the more help we can be, because sometimes people don’t know they can go for help,” Jacob-Toews said.
The run will support Community Links which, according to a press release promoting the run, helps more than 200 individuals and families through services related to family violence each year. Last year, the run raised $4,750 for the organization.
“We also want to make sure that the supports can continue – that we do have funding to continue to support those that are impacted by violence,” Jacob-Toews said.
The run is split into three courses – five kilometres (km), 10 km and Airdrie’s only half-marathon. The start and finish line for all three courses is in East Lake Park, behind Genesis Place Recreation Centre. The five-km run is held in honour of Andrea Conroy, a local woman who was killed in an act of domestic violence in February 2012.
Jacob-Toews said slightly more than 200 people participated in the run in 2019, and, as of Feb. 10, around 70 people have signed up for this year’s race.
Registration is available at legacyendurance.com/legacy-run, and costs $70 for the half-marathon or $50 for each the five- and 10-km runs. Groups of four or more can register together for a discounted rate of $50 for the half-marathon or $40 for two other courses. Runners must register by April 17, and anyone who does will receive a T-shirt.
Runners can also make an additional donation to Community Links, if desired.
Volunteers are essential to ensure the success of the race, Jacob-Toews said, and many spots still need to be filled. Anyone interested can visit the website to learn more.
Race day will kick off with a warm-up led by a local fitness company prior to the start of the runs. Starting time for the half-marathon is 9 a.m., followed by the 10 km at 9:30 a.m. and the five km at 10 a.m.
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