Registration for Jaffray’s first ever half marathon, dubbed the Jaffray Off-Road Mayhem race, is officially open. The inaugural run, offering 10 kilometre and five kilometre options alongside the 21 kilometre feat, will be held on the morning of Saturday, May 30.
The event was created to raise money and awareness for the newly established South Country Trail and Recreation Association, as well as the Sand Creek Community Club. The funds will also go towards maintaining the Jaffray Community Hall, and promoting the development of a path along the highway corridor.
“This run will provide an opportunity to promote some of our backcountry trails and put us on the map as we work toward mapping out the backcountry and creating sustainable trails for future use,” said Marla Jones, a member of the race’s planning crew. “We have a lot of fit and active people in our town, and so we want to encourage people to work out, stay fit, and be active.”
Starting at the edge of town on Shelborn Road, the 21 kilometre route will circuit through a variety of changing terrain including dirt roads, hills, grassy meadows, and wooded areas. The event will be well equipped with water stations offering refreshments and snacks every five kilometres, as well as first aid responders and portable bathrooms scattered throughout the circuit. Runners will have a total of four hours to complete the race, and are urged to train appropriately prior to the run.
While participants are encouraged to push their athletic prowess at the timed event, the race is open to runners of all abilities. Promising to maintain a lighthearted atmosphere, Jaffray Off-Road Mayhem will come to life with cheering fans, fun prizes, pop up shops, a beer garden, and a delicious food pit.
“This run or run/walk is for everyone. Please come out, there are more ways to get involved in our event and community too. Volunteerism is a huge thing that helps people make great social connections and gives people a sense of purpose, so run or walk if you want, or just come on down and check out the other stuff happening like pop up shops, get some food, and have a visit,” said Jones.
With registration selling out fast, prospective runners are encouraged to sign up soon. Entrance fees run at $65 for half marathon participants, $45 for 10 kilometre racers, and $30 for those partaking in the five kilometre run. Though half marathon racers must be at least 14 years old, the shorter races remain open to younger participants. Runners completing the half marathon will receive participation medals in addition to the complementary race tee shirts that will be handed out to those who register prior to April 30.
Hoping this event will grow into something special for the town of Jaffray, Jones would like to thank the support from sponsors in the community, including the Sand Creek Lions who were first to enable organization of the event through their $500 donation.
For more information on the event, including a complete course outline, visit the Jaffray Off-Road Mayhem’s Facebook page or their website at Jaffray-off-road-mayhem.constantcontactsites.com.
editor@thefreepress.ca Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
