The six Preston-Gosselin kids crossed the finish line of their 602-kilometre Kids Help Cancer Run with energy to spare.
The youth started the run in Lavington July 1 and they wrapped up in Vancouver Thursday.
“The last leg was only 18 kilometres from Burnaby and they all ran the last kilometre,” said father Reg Gosselin.
“They would have finished the run two days earlier if we had let them, they were so enthusiastic, but we kept to our schedule. We had phenomenal weather and good health on our side. Some of the hills were a challenge but they took it as a badge of honour to be able to complete them. The RCMP escorts made it so much safer for the kids to run on the highway.”
Michael Preston, nine, inspired by Terry Fox, came up with the idea for a run to raise money for cancer research more than a year ago and convinced his sisters and brother to join in. Parents Reg Gosselin and Natalie Preston agreed, if the kids would train for a year.
“We thought at first it might be a fleeting thought but they did their part and showed they were serious so we helped organize the run,” said Reg.
“We want to thank the police for their help, and Sport Chek and Budget Rent A Car and Voyageur RV and our family and friends. And of course, The Morning Star. You were there right from the beginning and because of you the community got to know what we were doing.”
Haylee Gosselin, 10, is a Morning Star carrier and did part of her training for the run walking and delivering papers.
“The finish line was very emotional for all of us. We’re very proud of them. There’s a feeling of what’s next,” said Reg.
“They had a great time and they’re looking for their next challenge. They’re kicking ideas around.”
The run raised close to $18,000 of the $20,000 goal.
The website will be open for donations for one more week. See www.prestongosselinkidshelpcancer.webs.com.
