Organizers of the women’s fall challenge contribute their energies because of the conviction that the event well deserves the many hours that will be spent in preparation.
What do they do come spring? The group meets to identify strengths and needs. Perhaps there is a change in membership or a shift in positions. No matter what changes there might be, the committee ensures that there is a core of dedicated organizers. They discuss the goals for the year, choose a new colour for merchandise and debate the logo that will be boldly emblazoned.
The key jobs are that of overseer, internal affairs, registration, corporate sponsorship, general sponsorship, publicity, communications, volunteers, luncheon, awards and more. A simple fun run has turned into a popular happening. Once the colour and logo are chosen, a range of commodities are determined. This assortment is listed on the entry form, on the website and at the Quesnel and District Arts and Recreation Centre.
Entry forms and brochures are shared with local businesses, at the Arts and Recreation Centre and mailed to out of town contacts. Ladies begin registering by the middle of July for an event that won’t happen for another few months because they are keen to participate.
During July and August, organizers are booking venues and support systems. A team approaches friendly faces at local businesses and accept all manners of contributions. Donations in cash or in kind might be used for prizes, organizational details or become part of the monies that will be considered profit to be added to the fund.
It is now the middle of August and we already near 30 registrations and a similar number of donations. Our website is active and online registrations are being accepted at strideandglide.ca.
But we are still in the preliminary stages though much has already been done. Come September, we expect the registration team to shift into high gear. Registrants by Sept. 15 will determine the numbers for merchandise orders. After that, the second stage of registration is engaged and will continue in a flurry until the morning of the race. During the week prior, some will mark the course while others will prepare the race packages for distribution on Oct. 4 from 3 – 6 p.m. at the Arts and Recreation Centre. And on race day Charlie, our race site manager, will work with Mike from Night Owl Music and with Shayne from Stride and Glide to make the venue welcoming and well-organized. We will take late registrations, hand out packages that were not picked up and ensure that the porta potties are ready for much traffic. By noon, all walkers and runners should have completed the course and the emphasis transfers to the luncheon at the UNBC campus. Here, participants will refuel, many thank yous will be shared, awards will be presented, prizes will be awarded and great sighs of relief will accompany the congratulations for another great event. Wow and phew.
Please mark Oct. 5 on your calendar, register early and join us.
The shirts and bags will be purple this year and you will look very smart sporting such classy attire. Bring all the ladies in your circle, family and friends. Let’s make the 21st year a resounding success.
– submitted by
Liz-Anne Eyford