Stretch your legs and get hydrated, the Tour de Airdrie is less than two months away.
The Airdrie Rotary Club’s sixth annual race on April 10 comes in three lengths: five, 10 and 21 kilometres.
Over the years, the race has generated between $200,000 and $250,000 to support local programs, specifically Community Links, designed to end domestic violence.
“The support that we’ve been receiving through the run has been a tremendous benefit for us,” said Brenda Hume, Community Links’ executive director. “Because of government cutbacks, Rotary has been able to step in and we’re able to continue our programming.”
There are a number of sponsors for the event but more are always welcome, according to Mike Acheson, president of the Rotary.
“Every year we try and run the race, we try and attract more runners,” said Mike Acheson. “Part of the challenge is also trying to attract sponsors.”
McKee Homes is once again the lead sponsor, and Acheson said there are options for individuals looking to sponsor the Tour.
People can donate to the race by sponsoring one-kilometre sections of the racetrack for $1,000 and receive recognition.
“You can walk, jog, ride; you can do whatever you need to,” said Lori McRitchie, Tour chair.
“Just come on out with us.”
There is no maximum number of entrants and people can register up until April 8.
“It’s well worth the money to come out and run,” she said. “It’s very reasonable and there’s lot of perks to becoming a runner.”
Those perks include an official race T-shirt, a bag chalk full of coupons and a lunch.
“Even if you have never run, we need the community on board,” said McRitchie.
“It’s not just for the runners, it’s for everyone.”
Early-bird registration until March 31 is $40. Racers under age 12 can participate for free. Registrations are accepted online at www.tourdeairdrie.com
The 21-kilometre race begins at 10 a.m. at Genesis Place while the five and 10-kilometre portions begin at 10:30 a.m.
