There are so many great events during Vancouver Pride, but there’s one extraordinary event that bring together the close-knit running community and welcomes visiting runners, and that’s the annual Vancouver Pride Run.

The 8th annual Vancouver Pride Run and Walk is hosted by Vancouver Front Runners, the Canada’s largest LGBT running group, and Vancouver’s longest-serving running and walking group. The club formed after the 1982  Gay Games were hosted in San Francisco, where two local Vancouverites met at the run and decided Vancouver needed a safe running community to train and build new friendships.

Participants and spectators will have an opportunity to meet myself, Mr. Gay Canada 2012 People’s Choice Award winner, and Rob Goddard, Mr. Gay Canada 2011. We will both be participating in the 2012 Vancouver Pride Run.

The event takes place at Lumberman’s Arch in Vancouver stunning Stanley Park. There is a 10km run and a 5km walk. Proceeds from the Vancouver Pride Run will go to Out In Schools. Registration is $40 until July 25, 2012.