There are many organized running and walking events in Cape Breton. The Fiddlers’ Run is probably the most well known. Every year, hundreds of people of all ages take part in that great event which helps to promote physical activity in our community. Many of the participants in these walks and runs are women but there is no event that is exclusively for women. Well, there wasn’t until now!
Colleen Carey is the organizer of the first annual Mother’s Day 5K Walk and Run. This walking and running event is for women only. Carey wanted to organize a fun event for women of all ages for many reasons. Carey points to the fact that research shows that young women aren’t getting enough physical activity. She also says, “Some women are uncomfortable getting out—they’re shy for many reasons, especially when men are involved. Girls are self-conscious and have worries about body image—especially girls in high school.” She stressed that this isn’t a high school event but that it’s for all women. “It’s good for women of all ages to be active together because it’s important for young women to have role models—older women that they can look to for inspiration. Usually in races, it is men who finish in the top three. This is an opportunity for girls to see women being successful and winning.”
So far, the interest in the event has been great. Over 20 people have registered so far and other women and men have volunteered to help out in other ways. Some women see this as a great first event. Some women, who are newer to running, now have a good opportunity for their first public run. It’s also a great opportunity for mothers and daughters to come out and be active together on Mother’s Day. And, as Carey points out, “strollers are welcome!”
Please contact Colleen Carey at colleen_clare@hotmail.com if you plan to participate. The event starts at 9:30am on May 9th at the boardwalk behind the CBRM Civic Centre on the Esplanade in Sydney. Registration fee is $5 plus a donation of non-perishable food items to Loaves and Fishes. There will be refreshments and lots of prizes!
If you are a woman or girl and you are interested in a great community event on Mother’s Day—a fabulous opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise and to share some quality time with other women in the community—then you should check out the Mother’s Day 5K Walk and Run.
