After taking part in the Terry Fox Run for cancer research with her daughter the past three years, Courtney Penrose will organize the 35th installment of the run, which takes place Sunday, Sept. 20.
“It’s the 35th year for the run, that’s a pretty big milestone and it is an awesome event,” said Penrose.
Penrose saw an article searching for a new coordinator for the race and thought it would be a great way to help the cause.
“Terry is a Canadian idol. I’ve had a lot of family members go through cancer, so this is a way for me to stand up for what I believe in,” said Penrose.
“The run becomes more meaningful as I get older.”
The biggest task for Penrose is rerouting the run. This year, the run will start at Marshall Field, head down Okanagan Landing to Kin Beach and take a left along Lakeshore Road.
It is a five-kilometre loop, but people can do it twice if they like.
“It’s a great family event. You can bike, run or walk,” said Penrose.
Registration opens at 8 a.m. at Marshall Field with the run beginning at 9 a.m.
Penrose has received great help from co-organizer Tanya Davoren, along with 50 other volunteers, who have helped with promotions, permits and recruiting other volunteers.
There is no entry fee, no minimum pledge or donation required.
To date, more than $650 million has been raised worldwide for cancer research in Fox’s name.
