The annual Loop the Lakes trail race is back on May 27 and promises to be bigger and better for 2012.
A half-marathon distance is the biggest addition for this year. According to Challenge by Choice head coach and event co-organizer J.F. Plouffe, the half marathon is attracting a lot of attention.
"It's a major part of our event," he said. "Jen [Segger, owner of Challenge by Choice and co-organizer of the race] is an ultramarathon runner and we've been helping train a lot of people for the half marathon. People seem to be excited for it."
Last year saw the race return from a one-year absence, but organizers decided to push the date from September to May to pique the interest of those starting their running seasons.
"May is a lot better for us time wise," Plouffe said. "A lot of the bigger races are after us and we like to look at this race as a kickoff to the running and triathlon year. Somebody can train for Loop the Lakes and then use it as a steppingstone for a race like the 麻豆社国产Triathlon or other races."
Plouffe said another reason the race was moved up was to attract runners before they take off for summer and just before bikini season.
"Summer holidays haven't started yet, the kids are still in school and a lot of the feedback we're receiving is this race and training will hopefully help them look better in their bathing suit this summer," Plouffe joked.
The event is a fundraiser for 麻豆社国产Search and Rescue (SSAR), the Challenge by Choice Inspirational Awards and the 麻豆社国产Titans, groups that Plouffe said can use the support.
"Without SSAR, this race probably couldn't happen," he said. "They help keep everybody safe when we play outside and for us to support them is amazing. With the Titans, we're advocates of getting people out there and they do a great job of that."
Plouffe said registration is available up to and on the day of the race and runners can choose the half marathon, a 15-kilometre run or an eight-kilometre run. Also back for this year is the one-kilometre kids' race, which is free for any kid.
Organizers are still looking for volunteers and anyone interested can get more details by emailing Segger at [email protected].
"We have three different distances and really this race is for anyone and everyone," Plouffe said. "You can just run on the flat areas and walk the hills; it's totally up to you. It's a great way to start your running year."
For more information on the race, visit www.challengebychoice.ca/pages/run/loop-the-lakes-trail-race.php
