What better way to celebrate Labour Day and the last unofficial weekend of summer than walking or running along Hamilton’s beach strip. VRPro is holding its first ever “Summer Shores Race” event and Race Director, Kelly Arnott couldn’t be more excited.
She says, “The course is flat and very pretty. The City of Hamilton has done a wonderful job keeping this beach pristine. And being held for the first time, everyone will have a personal best for this event.” There is a 1K, 5K walk/run and an 8K run. You can register for this event at www.vrpro.ca There are registration discounts for seniors and youth.
Keepsake Finisher’s Medal
Everyone participating will receive a Finisher’s Medal. The center of the medal holds a small bottle. In that bottle, there is sand from the Hamilton beach strip. It’s a nice memento of the Summer Shores Race. Arnott says, “People can take that medal with them to Florida and get beach sand from there. They can put herbs in there. They can use that little bottle for anything they like.”
In addition to the medal, runners and walkers will receive a drawstring bag, technical shirt, and chip-timed results.
Donations to Hamilton Food Share
All proceeds from the 1K walk will go to Hamilton Food Share. Arnott says, “For every dollar raised, Hamilton Food Share will receive 5 times that amount in food. If $2,000 is raised in pledges, Hamilton Food Share will receive $10,000 worth of food.”
Hamilton Food Share supplies food to dozens of support agencies and food banks in Hamilton, Burlington, and Oakville. Runners can donate non-perishable food items to Hamilton Food Share. It’s a wonderful charity to support when so many are facing food insecurity.
Race Day
Participants must pick up their race bib and race kit prior to lining up at the start line. You can pick up your race kit on Sunday, September 3rd at the Running Room in Stoney Creek at 1791 Stone Church Road East from Noon to 4pm. You can also pick up the race kit on Labour Day prior to the start of the races. Volunteers are needed to be race marshals and to hand out water.
All races start and end at Lakeland Center at 180 Van Wagner’s Beach Road. The 1K begins at 8:30am. The 5K and 8K will start at 9am. There will be refreshments and an Awards Ceremony following the races.
Fun After the Race
The pool and volleyball courts will be available at the Lakeland Centre at Confederation Park following the races for all to enjoy. Parking is free. There are public washrooms on site. There are great restaurants nearby, including Hutch’s on the Beach and Baranga’s on the Beach. Kelly Arnott says, “It will be a perfect way to celebrate the end of summer.”
For more information visit: www.vrpro.ca