The RCAF Run is going national and virtual this year.
The annual event was previously held at 17 Wing in Winnipeg each May.
Col Maggie Jacula says with the last two events cancelled due to the pandemic and the 100th anniversary of the RCAF approaching, organizers decided to make it national.
“We are coming up on the centennial of the RCAF, that occurs on the first of April 2024, and one of the things that we wanted to include in our programming for the centennial is that element of fitness. So by taking the RCAF Run virtual, we allow Canadians across the country to participate in the run, get out and be active but also have a little part in the centennial of the RCAF.”
Col Jacula says the run can be completed any time between May 28 and June 19 and is open to Canadians, military and non-military, of all ages and fitness levels.
“So people can choose to participate in the 3K which could be a walk or run, that’s what my children are doing. And then, as well there’s 5K, 10K and half-marathon. It’s really up to folks to set their own time, their own pace.”
Funds raised will go to a variety of causes.
“A portion of it will be to fund some of our centennial activities but as well we’re going to be providing funds for some of our partner charities who are involved perhaps in youth scholarships, as well some of the funding will go towards RCAF families and some of the needs that they may have.”
Funds will also go towards STEM programming to inspire Canadian youth to pursue careers in aviation and space.
In 2018 and 2019, the RCAF Run raised a combined $45,000 for Support Our Troops.
Participants who run the 5k, 10k and half-marathon will receive an exclusive race t-shirt while finisher medals will be given to all who take part.
For more information and to register for the RCAF Run, click here.