Can you imagine running 21,000 kilometers? Actually running and some swimming?
I was speaking with a colleague from work the other day. We had been talking about how she is getting ready to run a race in October. The conversation quickly turned to her fiancée, Steve Gaul. He is planning to run across Canada next June or perhaps earlier in honour of the May 24 weekend.
Steve is debating whether he is going to run the traditional route others runners, including Terry Fox have taken. Or whether he is going to take the Rail Trail. He figures running the Rail Trail will mean running for eight months. He will be running across Canada from Cape Fear Newfoundland to Victoria British Columbia through some of the most incredible scenery. And maybe some of the most difficult. Using the Rail Trail will mean there are a lot more runners who will be able to join him.
“I first came up with the idea while running one day. I was distraught over my sister’s battle with cancer and found it impossible to deal with, thinking there was nothing I could do.”
And the idea morphed into a cross Canada trek. With the goal being raising awareness of the benefits of physical activity.
And with that a plan was set and a goal put in place.
He doesn’t see himself a lonely runner on the road with only his support crew as company. Steve sees Canadians across the country joining him.
“My dream is to have everyone run/walk at least 1 km with me. 1 km from every Canadian. I figure a great way to meet every Canadian.”
I told Steve to sign me up. I might even keep him company for more than a kilometer! Check back on the blog. I would like to keep track of how things go while he gets prepared! And even while he runs!
Drop Steve a line at his email. He would love to hear from other runners. If you would like to join Steve and help make history, his email is beatcancer@stevegaul.com.