All posts tagged with: April Fools Run

April In the days leading up to the BMO Sunshine Coast April Fools Run, the constant downpour of rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the would-be half marathon participants.  As runners geared up for the Sunday, April 7, 2013 race, the overcast skies remained dry and kept temperatures cool, creating ideal running conditions for the 36^th annual race.

The 628 participants lined up for the 9:30am start in Gibson’s for their 21.1km (13.3mi), journey from Gibsons to Sechelt. The first place overall and men’s finisher was Nicholas Browne, followed by the 2012 first place finisher, David Palermo, both from Vancouver. For the second year in a row, Lisa Brooking took home the first place women’s finish.

Watch the highlights video by Keith Dunn, of the top finishers:

Personal Results (new half marathon person best):

• Finish Time: 1:36:28
• Overall: 62/ 627
• Men’s Overall Finish: 51 / 235
• Men 30 – 34: 12/29
• Average Pace: 4:35m/km

On Sunday, April 7, 2013, runners will lace-up for the annual BMO April Fool’s Run, a beautiful point-to-point half marathon from Gibsons to Sechelt on B.C.’s Sunshine Coast.

Registrations are being accepted online until midnight on April 1, and will cap-out at 700 participants. Race packages include bib, timing chip, a Cytomax stick pack, the coveted blue BMO race gloves, and race shirt/jacket (if ordered).

Race package pick-up will be available in Vancouver on Thursday, April 4 at the Denman Running Room from noon till 6:00pm. The first 200 people to pick up their race packages at Denman Running Room will receive a free bottle of Muscle MLK.

Participants can also pick-up at the Gibson’s & Area Community Centre (700 Park Road), on Saturday, April 6 from noon to 5:00pm, or Sunday, April 7 from 8:00am – 9:15am.

Although the race time has been pushed out to a 9:30am start to accommodate participants coming from Vancouver on the early Sunday morning ferry, staying for the entire weekend is a great option. The official race hotel is the Cedars Inn, located just a few blocks from the start line. There are also B&B’s and other accommodation options available.

Spectators are encouraged to cheer on participants along the race route with signs and noise-makers, and to celebrate at the finish lines as runners receive their medals.

Finished with a half marathon personal best: 1:39:36!

This past Sunday, April 1, started off cold and wet on Vancouver’s Sunshine Coast as runners and volunteers gathered at the Gibsons recreation centre. As the timing gun went off precisely at 9:00am, the 21.1km half marathon was underway and off the runners went towards the finish line in Sechelt, where bright sunshine awaited.

The BMO Sunshine Coast April Fools Run is a beautiful point-to-point half-marathon course that passes through peaceful neighbourhoods, quiet country roads and through tranquil forests. But don’t be deceived; although the course is a net downhill route, there are many long hills to climb along the way, making this course challenging, even for a trained recreational runner.

The race is warmly embraced by the community. The course was well marked and course marshals along the route were at every turning point ensuring participants were heading in the right direction. It was amazing to see local residents along the race route to cheer on the participants.

Crossing the finish line. Photo credit: Laurie McConnell

The support from local businesses and organizations was evident throughout the race event – from aid stations to door prizes – they had the event covered. Even BMO came on-board for 2012 as a sponsor of the event, and employees from the local branch volunteered their time to ensure the event was a success.

For anyone preparing for the BMO Vancouver Marathon this is a must-do race during spring training. It fits perfectly with the Running Room training schedule too. It becomes a good indicator of how your training is progressing.

Runners, definitely mark this course into your 2013 race calendar. The friendly hospitality, fresh coastal air, scenic route, affordable entry fee, and a finishers medal all make this one of the most exciting spring half marathons.