“It’s not a race, but hurry up anyway, it’s hot!” Irene Poznifkoff enthusiastically exclaims to the group waiting at the ready for the start of the 18th annual Three Island Resort Walk and Run for Fun benefit.
Kettle Falls resident Harry Santos, who has been vacationing to the Nakusp area for a number of years, was the original driving force behind conceiving the fundraiser. Santos holds a Physical Education major and has coached teams in the states including the varsity football, basketball, baseball and track and field teams. He is no stranger to organizing successful benefits and was struck by the notion to host a fun run around Summit Lake, “18 years ago to the day.”
Santos was intimately involved in the Walk and Run for Fun for many years, but has recently passed on the responsibilities to part owner of Three Island Resort, Irene Poznikoff.
“It is remarkable” Santos warmly acknowledges, “she is doing a fantastic job.”
Racers register for the event with a donation of $5, which is matched by the Three Island Resort.
“Last year we had 144 participants” Poznikoff explains, “this year my goal is 150.”
The runners, walkers and bikers embarked on a 10-kilometer circuit around Summit Lake and then returned to the resort for raffle draws and prizes.
This year the event exceeded Poznikoff’s goal with 156 participants. All monies raised will be donated to the Arrow Lakes Hospital.
“It was unbelievable the support we got from Nelson, Nakusp and Castelgar,” Harry Santos remarked,
“What I’m most proud of is the weight of this project has gone onto Irene and she has done a great job,” Santos concluded.
