In addition to the special celebrations surrounding the 35th anniversary and April 1 date, this year's Fool's Run runners and walkers will enjoy a more eco-friendly race that, among other things, includes a commitment to recycling, composting and reducing carbon emissions.
As part of their commitment to greater environmental stewardship, organizers Teresa and Larry Nightingale have taken the pledge of sustainability - a pledge administered by Athletes for a Fit Planet, a leading environmental services company for athletic events.
The BMO Sunshine Coast April Fool's Run is displaying the pledge of sustainability logo on its website and Fit Planet is listing the Fool's Run in its green events calendar. The calendar enables athletes to read all 10 eco-practices that the Fool's Run has pledged to do at this year's race.
"We are able to recycle or compost nearly all the post-race waste, thanks to our green team volunteers and the support of Direct Disposal," Teresa said.
"As runners we enjoy the natural environment and want to help preserve it, not harm it, with our running-related activities. To help achieve those goals, I attended the recent zero-waste events workshop offered by the Sunshine Coast Regional District and SC Tourism, and discovered more ideas and local resources."
This year's event starts at the Gibsons and Area Community Centre and features a spacious new finish line in Mission Point Park (Davis Bay). The 35th anniversary celebrations include a costume contest, hot food offerings, and free kids' run in the park. The main race starts at 9 a.m. with an early 8 a.m. start for walkers and three-hour-plus runners. On-line registration is open until midnight Monday, March 26, at www.foolsrun.com. Walk-up registration will be available during package pickup on March 29 to April 1.
"We are excited that the organizers of the BMO Sunshine Coast April Fool's Run have publicly committed to take specific steps to green the 2012 Fools Run," added Bruce Rayner, chief green officer, Athletes for a Fit Planet. "And by listing the pledge criteria in the green events calendar, the participating athletes are assured that the Fool's Run's environmental commitment is sincere and real."
- Submitted
