Despite some less then ideal weather, the 8th Annual Loop Around the Lake took place on Sunday June 26th. The race saw over 170 participants running either a 12k, 5k and even some younger runners taking part in the kids 1k.
Since 2008, the Loop Around the Lake has been held to raise funds for the Chestermere Public Library, which opened its doors in 2007. Event organizer, Bernard Malliet stated when he created this event eight years ago, “With long term goals of raising over $100,000 for the Library over the next ten years, this is hoped to be a successful, annual event”.
To date, this annual race has raised over $70,000 by way of participant’s registrations fees and generous community donors, which the Chestermere Public Library is very thankful for.
“Despite the early hour, wind and rain on Sunday morning 157 runners and walkers and many volunteers came out for this year’s “Loop Around the Lake” benefitting Chestermere Public Library. Thanks go to Bernie Maillet, Iron man extraordinaire, who is the vision behind this event, which has now completed its eighth year and Cathy Burness, Library Assistant Director who coordinated the volunteers. Both of them put so much time and effort into making this a great event in Chestermere and it was great to see so many families participating as well as serious runners.” said Marilyn King, Chair of the Library Board.
King continued, “Many of the 12km and 5m runners return for this race each year but it was also neat to see lots of new faces. This year we had whole families involved and even a group from Chestermere Veterinary clinic with their dogs. I have to say my favourite part of the day is seeing all the kids setting off for the 1km…….future athletic stars in the making, definitely. A big thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors: without you this event wouldn’t be possible or such a success each year”.
Chestermere resident, Stacey Butler, said that this year of the Loop Around The Lake brought a very special guest along. “I would really love to acknowledge a great teacher from Rainbow Creek who took time out of his busy life to run a 5km run with my daughter Caley Butler. Sean Hartley is passionate about running and so is my daughter”.
At the time of this article, the race results were not yet posted but congratulations to all those who participated.
