If you are a runner, you’ll understand the excitement generated by a recent announcement that there will be a 5 and 10 kilometer race held in Barriere on June 3, 2012.
If you’re not a runner, you might be surprised to learn that you too, by following a simple training program, could easily compete in the 5k run by that time.
Wes Kibble, is the race director for the event, which is called the Barriere Fun Run. Kibble says, “Running is one of the most popular pastimes. Not only does it improve physical and mental health, but it is also often a great source of social interaction. Anybody can do it. Running is a thing for all ages, and all people, including kids and seniors.”
He notes that the upcoming Fun Run will bring a number of runners together at the Barriere Bandshell in Fadear Park, where all events will start and finish for a morning run through the streets of Barriere. There will also be a kids race which will stay within the park border and be approximately 800m.
The 5km race will be completed on approximately 90 per cent road, and 10 per cent trail along the river. The 10km will be approximately 60 per cent road and 40 per cent trail.
“Participants will come from Barriere, Clearwater, Kamloops and other surrounding communities,” said the race director, “Normally people drive along the highway as they pass through Barriere; however, this event will give visitors a different view of Barriere and an opportunity to explore our beautiful community.”
He also says the Fun Run will be a fundraiser for the North Thompson Volunteer and Information Centre, “Because that organization has done great things for the community, and needs our support to continue.”
Kibble is also the race director for the Rivers Spring Run Off race in Kamloops on March 18, 2012, and is far from a stranger to running. Being an avid competitor himself, he has done numerous half-marathons (21 km), is currently in training for a personal 40km run to celebrate his fortieth birthday from Whitecroft to Barriere “if the road is not muddy on that day”. He also has a number of other B.C. Interior races on his calendar. and will be traveling to California for a race in July, and to Kaslo, B.C., for another race in September.
Kibble encourages anyone who would like to start running to go online to the ‘Couch to 5k’ website at: http://www.fromcouchto5k.com. The site is full of information, and provides a daily training program that starts on the first day with a five minute walk, two minute jog, and another five minute walk; and if you follow the program, 10 weeks later you are running in a 5k race!
He also encourages first time runners to find a running partner or group for mutual support.
“I’ve found training with others is so much easier than trying to do it on your own. We tend to push ourselves a little bit harder when we are not alone. That way you have accountability, with emotional and physical support. Running with others has provided great memories to share, and many runners have become my best friends.”
Kibble encourages experienced runners within the Barriere community to step forward and help to mentor those who are just getting started in the sport; noting that due to the fact he currently lives and works in Kamloops he is not available locally on a regular basis.
He also asks that anyone willing to volunteer and help out on race day would be most welcome. There will be a need for other community support which will take many forms, as well as the generosity of sponsors who may wish to be involved with the event, or donate door prizes. He notes there will be a race website and a Facebook page forthcoming.
The Fun Run will charge a competitor race fee of $20 for pre-registration or $25 on race day. Participants can register after March 1 online (website address not available at press time), or at the North Thompson Volunteer Centre (NTVIC). Volunteers can also sign up online or at NTVIC.
“We are definitely going to need the support of the community to make this a success, but it will be well worth it,” said Kibble, “If the first one is successful I would like to make the Barriere Fun Race an annual event.
For more information Wes Kibble can be contacted at weskibble@offroadaction.ca or at 250-682-7771.