Sunday May 26, 2024 | OAK BAY, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Hundreds of Oak Bay Half Marathon runners made their way through the tony South Oak Bay area on this grey wet Sunday morning.
They started at Windsor Park and made their way along a 10 km course.
- 7:00 am – Half Early Start
- 8:00 am – Half, Relay & 10K
- 10:30 am – Dairyland Kids 1k
There was a positive mood for those who ran for their best time, or for any other range of personal and social challenges.
Runners of all ages made their way along the route that started and finished at Windsor Park, between Transit & St David. Young couples, middle-age, and some older seniors were active in the event.
Supporters along the sidelines applauded and cheered on the runners. As the last runners made their way to the finish line they were encouraged from the sidelines.
First across the line:
The first runner to complete the race arrived well ahead of any of the other participants. Jonathan Gendron of Langford completed this morning’s 10K run in 33 minutes 8 seconds.
He says he used to run quite a bit 10 years ago but “got a bit of an injury” so he stepped away from running and pursued cycling. “Since December I got back into it,” said Gendron at the finish line.
Gendron says he got back into running for fitness and for the challenge, to challenge himself and to progress and have a goal to strive for.
Most of the other runners started arriving just before or at the 45-minute mark which is the expected lead runner time.
Good for business & economy:
Sports events like marathons are a good income generator and promotional opportunity for organizers, and are good for the local economy in terms of travel, accommodations, dining out, and retail.
Some runners were from the USA and from Europe.
Meaningful day for many:
Runners, organizers, volunteers, families, neighbours and supporters all had reasons for being there, and memories were made.
There was a best time (for race completion) and a good time (had by all).
