Numerous people, ranging from young to old hit the pavement Sunday morning to participate in the 5th Annual Loop around the Lake, raising funds for the Chestermere Public Library.
The morning started off chilly on September 15, but runners and walkers warmed up quickly on the beautiful paths surrounding our community in the only organized race of its kind in Chestermere.
This year’s event saw a new half-marathon wheelchair division with only one participant, Nolan Wiebe paving the way for more hand-cyclists and chair racers to join this fun event in the future. “The best course and event I’ve ever participated in” says Wiebe of the Loop around the Lake. “I had a great experience for my first half marathon and I’ll be back next year for sure.”
Volunteers were bright and cheerful on the course, giving inspiration to walkers and runners as they went by.
“Thank you Loop-around-the-lake organizers! What a great event you put on – and thanks to all the volunteers, their smiling faces and encouragement sure make a big difference” shares Leslie Bergen from Calgary, who participated in the 11.92K division.
The event saw participants in a Half-marathon (22KM); the original 11.92KM; a 5KM and for the budding athletes, a kids 1KM fun run.
Event Organizer, Bernie Maillet started this initiative 5 years ago with a goal to raise $100,000 for the Public Library. In the first four year, he has already reached the $50,000 mark.
100% of proceeds from this event go directly to the Library which first opened its doors in 2007 and remains a vital part of our community today.
The top finishers for each division were:
22KM – Top male and overall winner: Alfredo Albornoz, Top female: Deanna Fidler
22KM Wheelchair – Top finisher: Nolan Wiebe
11.92KM – Top male and overall winner: Craig Skrynuk, Top female: Alanna Handley
5KM – Top male and overall finisher: Arran Clarke, Top Female: Emily Moore
1KM Kids Run – Top female and overall winner: Paityn Skrynyk, Top male: Shemane Nji
Official results from the race can be found on-line at www.looparoundthelake.ca.
