Hundreds of drenched runners, organizers, and volunteers endured challenging conditions Sunday morning in support of the Patrick 4 Life Run/Walk. Nevertheless, smiles, good cheer, and lots of encouragement were seen and heard at the Start/Finish line at Lee Park.
Mayor Al McDonald joined fellow area citizens in taking part in the eleventh annual event. There were staggered races, covering half-marathon, 10km, 5km, and 2km (for children), all held in support of HIV/AIDS awareness and education.
Bob Sampson, Executive Director of Patrick 4 Life, has been involved in all 11 events. He says what keeps bringing him back are, "The students. Children. Patrick 4 Life is an organization that designs educational programs for students from grades three through eight, that makes them aware of HIV and AIDS, and to give them the knowledge and skills to make healthy lifestyle choices."
For more on Patrick 4 Life: http://www.p4l.ca/
Sampson, a former teacher, principal, and superintendent says charitable funds are collected by the race having a registration fee, in addition to donors and sponsors.
"I can't remember having a day (of weather) like this in the 11 years, but it doesn't seem to have dampened anyone's enthusiasm," Sampson opined.
"We are so grateful for the volunteers, the retailers who donate, people who come and help set up, on their own time," he said..
