Cornwall, Ontario – Cornwall’s annual St. Lawrence Marathon, held on April 27, saw unprecedented participation with over 1,000 runners along with many spectators. Formerly known as the Cornwall Run to EndMS, the marathon continues to offer a variety of races, including a full marathon (and Boston Qualifier), half marathon, plus 10 KM and 5 KM races.
Race Director Sebastian Warner expressed his delight with the event’s success and the perfect spring weather, stating, “I don’t know what we did to deserve this amazing spring weather, but it couldn’t be any more perfect.” He also highlighted the widespread participation, noting, “28% percent of the participants are from Cornwall, with others traveling from as far as Vancouver and Newfoundland, literally coast-to-coast.” There were also participants from the United States.
Among the standout performances, Simon Gareau of Ottawa clinched first place in the marathon with a time of 2:41:50. Local runner John Racine finished 18th at 3:01:50, qualifying him for the Boston Marathon. Racine, also a co-volunteer coordinator, shared what he needed to do to qualify: “This year the qualifying time for Boston is 3:20, and with about 18 minutes of buffer time, I should qualify for Boston, and 3:05 will let me qualify for New York.”
The half-marathon was won by Isaac Fraser of South Glengarry, who finished in 1:11:57. Fraser remarked on the community spirit, “It was a good day; everyone was in a good mood, and it was wonderful seeing everyone participate.”
In addition to athletic achievements, the marathon also supported local causes, donating $11,000 to 11 different groups. The beneficiaries were the Kinsmen Club of Cornwall, Rotary Club of Cornwall, Rotary Club of Cornwall Sunrise, Junior Optimist Club, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Children’s Treatment Centre, Akwesasne Minor Lacrosse, Centre 105, Akwesasne Freedom School, Diversity Cornwall, and Cornwall Minor Hockey.
Mayor Justin Towndale, who is experienced at running in political races, showcased his community spirit by participating in the 5 KM race of the St. Lawrence Marathon, finishing with a time of 41:19.
