At this point, everyone in Greater Vancouver should know about the famed Vancouver Sun Run. The 10 kilometre running event is widely known as a tradition for Vancouverites of all ages, from grade schoolers to seniors. Although most marathons are 42 kilometres which is four times the length of the Sun Run, its shorter distance makes it more widely accessible to finish and therefore attracts broader participants.

When the Sun Run first began its annual event in 1985, it attracted 3700 runners to take on the 10 kilometre challenge. It might not seem like much compared to the recent 60,000 numbers, but at the time it was indication of the potential success the Sun Run could have.

Of course, even if the word “sun” is in the name of the event, it cannot escape the infamous Vancouver rain. However, despite heavy rain hitting the pavement in some years, it did not deter runners from carrying out this annual tradition. The mandate of the Sun Run is to promote health and fitness, which I feel it has successfully done.

G, Th. “Running.” 2016. JPG file. / Pixabay

I remember my first time partaking in this run was in eighth grade, right at the start of high school. Although I had no idea why people would pay to run 10 kilometeres. I then realized that the Vancouver Sun Run was a lot more than just a simple mini marathon. Right from the starting line, I could feel the spirit and energy from the live bands. There’s something about doing an activity in a big group that really boosts your morale. Something I would normally not do, such as running for 10 kilometres, suddenly seemed very appealing to me. Along the race, there are so many people on the sides cheering for you to go on, with volunteers providing water stations and banana stations. At the final stretch, you can see the finish line in your eyes, and you cross it. When all is done, there is always a celebration inside BC Place that provides free drinks and snacks to replenish and restore your energy.