"Running" with a purpose, one step at a time.
The annual Okotoks Terry Fox Run took place at Sheep River Park on Sunday, bringing together over 200 participants to raise funds for cancer research. The event offered various distances, including 1.5, three, and five kilometres, allowing participants to run, walk, or roll.
Organizer Steve Preece reported that this year’s run was the largest to date, with almost double the normal number of participants. While the total funds raised are still being counted, Preece stated that the event has already surpassed last year’s total of $21,000, with approximately $25,000 raised so far.
The event route was modified this year to be completely level, making it more accessible to participants. Don Cowie, a 83-year-old guest starter and cancer survivor, completed the three-kilometre course in his wheelchair, having participated in the run for 46 years and raising over $100,000 for cancer research.
Following the event, participants enjoyed a free barbecue courtesy of local businesses Sobeys, Save-On-Foods, and Fountain Tire.
This year’s run saw 17 teams participate, including “Team Milly,” a group of young women who ran in support of Milara “Milly” Okabe, a 22-year-old Okotoks skating coach recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer.
Organizer Steve Preece highlighted the importance of team participation, stating that it brings a warm and supportive energy to the event. He hopes to increase the number of teams participating next year, encouraging more locals to come together to raise funds for cancer research.
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