Welcome into August everyone! May a beautiful month of summer running lie ahead! As we get closer to nearing the end of the summer season there are some local races coming up. In today's Times we're going to learn more about the Race Against Racism, which is being held on September 22. Here to tell us all about the event is Saskatoon Police Service Indigenous Relations Consultant, Angela Daigneault.So, let's get to it!Q&A with Angela Daigneault
Tara: Now going into its eighth year, the Race Against Racism has become a staple event in the community. What was the motivation for setting up this event all those years ago?
Angela: The Race Against Racism started in 2011 with a goal of providing a positive environment for people of all ages, cultures, religions and ethnic backgrounds to gather and promote an active healthy lifestyle while encouraging positive police community relations. All funds raised would go back to support various local community organizations with programming and services that supported inclusion and diversity. As the event grew, cultural performances and display booths were added as well as Cram the Cruiser to gather non-perishable items for the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre.
The Race Against Racism welcome, runners, walkers and rollers of all levels to join in the fun. Photo Supplied
Tara: Who is welcome to participate in this event? Is it for all levels of runners?
Angela: The Race Against Racism's community-led planning committee really wanted to focus the race back on the message and make the day's events all about an inclusive community. So for 2018, the 2.5K Fun Run/ Walk/ Stroller Roll that is pet-friendly is now free for anyone interested in taking part. There will be a donation jar for those who wish to donate what they can but all are welcome. Those who do not wish to walk or run can also be cheerleaders and take in all the excitement of the Cultural Expo, which is located at the start and finish line and will have activities going on throughout the day's events. All levels of walkers and runners are welcome and encouraged to challenge a friend to join them to race against racism.
Tara: Tell us more about the courses for the varying distances.
Angela: The race begins in Victoria Park (near the boathouse) and follows the beautiful riverside along the Meewasin Trail through River Landing, with the 10K turnaround being out along Spadina Crescent (near Archibald Arena).
The Around the World: A Cultural Expo, provides an intercultural education through entertainment as part of the spirit of the Race Against Racism. Photo Supplied
Tara: Over the years, how has the Saskatoon Police Service seen the Race Against Racism impact the community, and itself as an organization?
Angela: The Race Against Racism used to be solely organized by the police service and it was a great event, but input from the community was minimal. Over the recent years connecting with local organizations that support diversity in our city, which has strengthened and grown the race and the day's activities into a community-led event! The police service gets to learn directly from the community about how to connect the race more successfully with diverse populations, runners, youth and the larger general public as well. In 2017, the addition of Around the World: A Cultural Expo, brought organizations together to work towards the common goal of sharing intercultural knowledge through entertainment, food, artisans and information while incorporating anti-racism education.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Angela: We hope to see everyone out in Victoria Park Saturday September 22 at 10 o'clock in morning to help us Race Against Racism!ᐧ
Upcoming Events
Race Against RacismOn September 22 join your community for a run that brings together people from all over Saskatoon from various communities, with unique backgrounds, religions, cultures, sexual orientations, ages and ethnicities. Everyone comes together to achieve a common goal; to provide a positive, safe environment to live in harmony and show that Saskatoon will not accept racism.Runners, walkers and rollers have the choice to participate in the 2.5K, 5K, 10K or half marathon. To learn more and to register click here.
Brainsport Running Academy
Learn to Run at Wanuskewin Heritage Park: Get the basics down this summer over a 7-week long course leading into the Race Against Racism on September 22.
The course starts on Saturday, August 11, 2018. Sessions will take place along the great trails at Wanuskewin Heritage Park! To register go to raceroster.com.
Teen Challenge Freedom Run
Runners and walkers of all fitness levels will join together for our Teen Challenge Freedom Run on August 19. This 5K fun run is in support of the Teen Challenge Prairie Hope Women's Centre. Whether you are a seasoned runner or first-time participant, end your summer with a healthy living challenge and support a great cause fighting addiction across Saskatchewan. To register click here.AIESEC's Run for Good Health and Well-Being With support from Brainsport and Affinity Insurance, AIESEC Saskatoon will be hosting a community run on August 12 in Victoria Park. All proceeds of the event will be donated to the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital.Entry fee for each participant is $30. This includes single admission into a race of your choice and a free run t-shirt. Distance options are one mile, 5K and 10K. Registration is open until August 12 at 9 a.m. Click here to register. And, to find out more about the event click here.
GMS Queen City Marathon
Take part in one of the province's premier road races on the weekend of September 7 at the Queen City Marathon. There are distance options ranging from the kid's 1K through to the full marathon, along with relay options. To learn more and to register click here.
EY River Run Classic
The EY River Run Classic is one of the premier running events in Saskatoon. This event is organized by the Saskatoon Road Runners Association and consists of 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances. The routes run along the South Saskatchewan River, making for a beautiful route. For more information click here. Triathlon Movie Screening"We Are Triathletes" is screening across Canada this summer. On August 9 Transition Sport & Fitness is hosting the Saskatoon screening at the Galaxy Theatre. Everyone is welcome. Come for a fun night in a cinema full of triathletes, endurance enthusiasts, and their pals.Watch the trailer here: https://ca.demand.film/we-are-triathletes/. Tickets are on sale now, (organizers are asking people to please buy tickets in advance as they need 50 people to guarantee the movie can screen). Use the code "TriClub18" to receive 10% off your tickets if you reserve them before July 11. Click herefor tickets. And, join the Facebook Event Page here.
Voodoo Fitness Festival
In September Saskatoon will play host to the Voodoo Fitness Festival - the largest fitness competition in Canada. There are divisions for all levels of athletes, so if CrossFit is up your alley be sure to check out the website to learn more. https://voodoofitnessfest.com/.
Product of the Week
Good Sunglasses
Keep it cool and simple with Goodr sunglasses! These shades are making a mark on the running scene with their no-frills approach and commitment to quality and affordability. Goodr sunglasses are made by runners, which means attention to details, such as making sure the design doesn't allow for slippage or bouncing, have all been taken into account. In addition to their comfortable cool style, Goodr sunglasses are polarized with the highest UV protection. Drop by the store and check out our variety of colours in stock!
Thanks for reading the Times this week.
Gotta run,
Tara