Calgary welcomes Sears Great Canadian Run

Showing strength in numbers as teams cross the finish line.

A 100km team-based relay event is enough to spark the interest of runners from seasoned veterans to first-time racers and that’s exactly what the Sears Great Canadian Run is all about. “We’re open to anyone; if you’re an elite runner or a beginner, it about celebrating each runner,” explains Samantha Piercell communications manager for the Sears Great Canadian Run. With 12 to 14 exchange points ranging in distances from three to 12 kms, each team’s journey is different, for example, one Ottawa-based team had all 20 members logging the full 100 kilometres.

Now in its fourth year, the Sears Great Canadian Run has expanded from Ontario event (Toronto on September 24 and Ottawa on October 4) to Alberta with Calgary (August 23) as the host city. It’s a decision that puts significant support behind the Kids Cancer Care Foundation. As the title sponsor, Sears covers the administration costs of running such that teams are thinking more creatively about fundraising, organizing barbeques, community yoga and boot camps, something that helps to raising awareness about the cause and event.“You don’t have to look far to see someone who is affected by childhood cancer,” says Piercell, “all our an event, which means that donors can be assured their money will support the charity, an important distinction as the fight for charity donor dollars remains on the rise.

Although the Ottawa and Toronto events divide the funds raised between local and national initiatives, 100 percent of donations will stay in Calgary. With a minimum of $500 raised per person, Piercell says teams are running for the cause, it’s real life and their connected to it.” With numerous charity events in the running, it has been that sense of community that Piercell believes has made the Sears Great Canadian Run a stand out success. “It’s one team, one goal, it’s happy and sad,” she explains, “there’s a huge sense of comradery, everyone is motivating each other and you open up a part of yourself that you may not have known you had in you.” An emotional event, the Calgary race offers additional emotional impact as runners celebrate the end of their journey with a post-event celebration at Camp Kindle, an overnight camp for children and families affected by childhood cancer; a finish that will no doubt have a lasting impact.

Rally your crew of runners, and join in the fight to #EndKidsCancer as registration for the Great Canadian Run in Calgary, Toronto and Ottawa is now open.