As amazing as it may seem we have 11 major runs and races scheduled for Summerland in 2013.
Wow, what a week of warm weather, we just had two major girls’ softball tournaments that brought more than 45 teams to our community from all over the province.
The month of May signals the start of an amazing series of runs and races that are available for a variety of participants from the very fit to those wanting to be out with their family.
It all started with the Giant’s Head Hill Climb cycling race on May 4 and special appreciation to Art VanKooy who made the race happen.
Art is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, and many have met Art at the Bike Barn making sure your bikes are in excellent shape.
We are in full swing organizing the grand-daddy of them all — The Giant’s Head Run and Man of Steel Triathlon.
I wonder whether people like Doug Thring, Ellen Lloyd and Jim Riccuiti thought 31 years ago their event would still be going strong today.
I’ve always been amazed when our neighbouring communities are complimentary about our family and community involvement in the Action Festival Races (just a reminder that now is the time to register for both the Giant’s Head Run and Man of Steel Triathlon). You can enter online at www.runningroom.com or download an entry form at www.summerland.ca or pick one up at the Aquatic Centre.
There are still eight major runs and races to follow during the summer and fall season. They include the GranFondo which weaves its way through the South Okanagan and another event unique to the Okanagan, the Ride the Giant longboard race schedule for the August long weekend at Giant’s Head Park. This event garners worldwide exposure with competitors from all over North America. In 2012, Ride the Giant was filmed by the Discovery Channel.
Ultraman will finish in Summerland on the August long weekend and don’t forget the Summerland Orca Sprint Triathlon and Kids of Steel Race on the September long weekend at Peach Orchard Park.
Other events include a new race, the Steve King 100-kilometre classic held Sept. 24 and a full Cross Country Race held Oct. 6.
Of course we can’t forget the Terry Fox Run the second week of September and the Test of Humanity Mountain Bike Race the third week of September.
I will try to get everyone more information as all these events get closer but what an amazing set of races for a community the size of Summerland.
Dale MacDonald has been Summerland’s Director of Parks and Recreation for the last 22 years and in his sporting past has won provincial championships in four different sports.