AVONMORE, Ontario – The 2nd Annual Chenier Mechanical Avonmore Firefighter Run on Saturday October 15th exceeded the expectations of organizers. The event held in Avonmore is a fundraiser for the Avonmore Firefighter’s Association for new equipment. Race Director, Garnett Last said last year’s race brought in around $900 for the Association. “This year it will probably be at least $2000,” he said.
With the registration quickly filling up for the 5 km and 10 km races a cap was put in place this year. Last explained, that every participant receives a medal. These medals need to be ordered to be available as each person crosses the finish line. He said, “We had to set a hard cut-off at 200 (participants), because of the medals.”
Today at last count, there were 164 participants with 15 to 20 registering this morning. This event includes firefighters from 10 different stations from as far away as Waterdown Ontario.
In the 5 km race the top runners were: 1st place Pierre Lavc, 2nd Kevin Riddell, 3rd Kaela Coleman and 4th Stephane Lavign.
In the 10 km the top runners were: 1st Eric Neilsen, 2nd Harmony Koiter, 3rd Jennifer Suggars and 4th Terry Lauzon.
Local business owner, Linda Salter, a Registered Massage Therapist was at the event to give massages for a donation to Avonmore Firefighter’s Association. She said, “I called and volunteered my services. What’s better than a massage after a race?”
A date has already been set for next year’s race, October 14, 2017. Last said, “We have already sent out “Save The Date” cards to participants.”
