Participants line up at the starting line at the McCamus farm to begin the event.
The 12th Cavan Hills Country Run, organized and executed by the St. John’s Anglican Outreach Committee, took place with favourable weather for running featuring sunny skies and seasonal temperatures last Saturday. The event kicked off at the McCamus farm on Stewart Line with 152 registered participants who had signed up for one of three possible options: a 10Km Run, a 10Km Walk, and a 4.7Km Run/Walk. All races start and finish at the McCamus Farm, and following one of two routes along township roads which were manned by volunteer traffic marshals. The first race begins at 9:00am, and all race participants were back at the McCamus Farm which is generously provided for the race headquarters, by 11:30am.
The event is held to raise both funds and awareness in support of St. John’s Outreach ministry while also providing an opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy a challenging walk or run in the beautiful Cavan countryside. Bringing people together to participate.
As in years past, this event is a family affair, and welcomes canine family members as well. Retired local veterinarian Edith Steinbeck, this year’s oldest participant, was accompanied by her daughter-in-law Karen and grandson Thomas who placed in the top ten in his age group. Also on hand was the refugee family from Liberia to witness firsthand the kind of community spirit that is fostered in events like these.
In addition to bragging rights, winners walked away with medals and all participants received grab bags including maple syrup, beans with recipes from the McCamus farm. There were also draw prizes provided by local sponsors, including Swish, and Millbrook Valley Animal Hospital. The best reward, however, was the feeling of community as people put on their gear and got some exercise roaming or running through the gorgeous Cavan countryside with friends and family on a spectacular fall day. KG
