Trail run organized to celebrate Petawawa’s 25th anniversary

Runners lace up your sneakers because the Petawawa 25th Anniversary Trail Run is happening on July 3.

This race is the first-ever officially held on the Algonquin Trail by Les Coureurs de Bois (CDB) Running Club and will see runners of all ages and skill levels make their way through Petawawa.

“It is open to all runners from across the country and beyond,” said Gary Serviss, CDB vice-president.

Though organizers are excited, there is apprehension as it is the first major race of its kind in Petawawa in over two years.

“We are completely unsure how many people we are going to get and how big this event is going to be,” said Serviss.

Though the ultimate goal is to test oneself and have fun, the races will be timed, and medals will be awarded to the fastest runners.

“It is labelled as a fun run, but it is timed as well because we know that the majority of people who run a race do like knowing what their time is, and they like to compete,” said Serviss.”

For those under 14, there will be a 3.2 km race at 9:30 a.m., followed by a 5.4 km and 10 km run starting at 10 a.m. for the rest.

The race is one of many activities planned to honour the 25th anniversary of the Township of Petawawa and the Village of Petawawa’s amalgamation.

“It is exciting for sure, and we are hoping that lots of people show up,” said Serviss. “If this is very successful this year, it may become an annual event.”

Dog House Brewery is sponsoring the event and will provide a branded beer glass for those completing the longer races. The racers aged 19 and over will also receive a complimentary Dog House Brewery beverage post-race.

Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Kinhut next to the Petawawa Civic Centre mini-putt, and the medal ceremony will be held at the same location at 12 p.m. The start and finish line will be at the intersection of Murphy Rd. and Petawawa Blvd.

For more information or to register, visit raceroster.com.