Welcome to Feeling Good NB. I hope you come back often to hear great things about our lovely Province. I am a proud New Brunswicker and with the exception of the First Nations, my family is one of the longest standing New Brunswick families dating back to 1766. We will talk a lot about physical activity and sport but hopefully much more than that, there is so much to do and see in NB!!
This site is very new (May 2017) so please be patient as we get things under way. Hopefully as we get better at manipulating things we can bring more value to the reader… come back often…
Canada Day is here and some great traditional races on are on tap. In Grand Bay-Westfield the Canada Day 10-Miler is a Super Series event along with a 5-km and 10-km option. The fun all starts at 9 a.m. and you can always count on some speedsters out front and walkers behind with lots of room for everyone in between. Check it out at https://events.runnb.ca/event/subway-restaurants-canada-day-10-miler/20002/
Also on Canada in Collette there is a 5-km run (or 2-km as an option for the kids) all starting at the Community Centre. Learn more about this great community celebration at https://events.runnb.ca/event/le-5-km-de-collette/14985/
In Grand Falls it is the 10th Annual Valley Health Run featuring a 5-km and 10-km as well as a 1-km for the kids. If you are interested don’t wait until race day, you must register in advance at https://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=15465
Although it is only coincidence, the 369th running of the Demi-marathon de l’Acadie takes place on Canada Day this month, one a great opportunity to take part in this classic event. Learn more at https://events.runnb.ca/event/369edemi-marathon-de-lacadie/22230/
Last week in Miramichi it was another great Rock N Run with Moncton’s Remi Guitard taking the men’s half marathon in 1:19:12 followed by Brad McLellean of Bathurst (1:25:36) and Alexandre Thebeau of Aldouane in 1:29:50. Emily Hamilton of Halifax led the women in 1:26:31 ahead of Penniac’s Hope Cyr in 1:49:02 and Amy Barrieau of Miramichi in 1:49:56. . The 10-km went to Grant Handrigan of Moncton in 34:31 for the men while Evan Arsenault (37:02) of Quispamsis and Riverview’s Colin McQuade (37:30) battled it out for 2nd and 3rd spots. Laura Dickinson the young running phenome of South Nelson was top woman in 37:05 followed by Sacha Hourihan of Southfield in 38:33 and Kari Parsons of Saint John in 45:36. Paula Keating won the women’s 5-km in 19:52 and Fredericton’s Tim Keilty took the men’s 5-km in 19:36.
At the Run for Renee the times were smokin’ hot as it was the East Coast Game’s 5-km Road Race. Brady Graves led the way for men in 15:23 ahead of Justin Young (16:51) and Trevor Funk (17:00). In the women’s race records fell as Shelley Doucet led the way with a new course record of 16:57 followed by Mary-Beth Jaillet in 19:38 and running legend Patty Blanchard in 19:50 setting a New Brunswick record for the 60-69 age group record. A great day of racing.
The Triathletes were busy in Saint John. The main event Sprint Triathlon was won by hometown boy Zachary Boulanger in 1:07:05 followed by Hampton’s Chandler Scott in 1:10:29 and Steve Vienneau of Rothesay in 1:11:47. The women were led by Sue Watson of Rothesay in 1:19:12 ahead of Charlottetown’s Bridget Keedwell in 1:21:00 and Beth Seamans of Quispamsis in 1:22:32. Pamela Queen of Quispamsis won the Aquabike in 1:02:02 while the men’s winner was Jesse English of Fredericton in 52:04. . Shelby Scott took the Super Sprint in 1:04:40 for women and Duncan MacGillivary of Miramichi was the men’s winner in 47:52. The men’s Duathlon was won by Bradley Wood of Ludlow in 1:18:03 and the top woman was Karen Kuzik of Saint John in 1:28:30.
This week our Person on the Run is no stranger to our column. Shelley Doucet is rewriting the New Brunswick running record book almost every time she laces up. Earlier this month she took third spot in the prestigious Mount Washington grueling uphill race then this week comes raging back home to set a new course record at the Run for Renee 5-km road race in 16:57. Truly a Person on the Run.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
Warning, a wild weekend is ahead. This Saturday in St-Isidore the 10-km Rheal Hache serves up another great 10-km and 5-km event like it has since way back in 1982. The 10-km is a Super Series race and you can get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/10km-rheal-hache-st-isidore/20862/
On the same day in Sussex you can feel all the love of Ellen’s Tour de Sussex Gran Fondo cycling event, preserving the memory of cyclist Ellen Watters. As Ellen used to say “This time let’s be EPIC”. https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15932/ellens-tour-de-sussex-2018
The following day the memories of our fallen heroes continues in Moncton with the Three Fathers Memorial Run, in memory of the three RCMP officers tragically lost in the line of duty. Every member of the family can join in and the distances range from 3-km to 10-km so be sure to check it out at http://www.threefathersmemorial.ca/race-information/
Another great Father’s Day event is celebrating its 40th anniversary on Sunday in St Andrews. The St Andrews Father’s Day 5-miler is a spring tradition for New Brunswick runners and this 40th running is sure to be another big success. You can register at https://events.runnb.ca/event/40th-edition-st-andrews-fathers-day-5-miler/19374/
In Oromocto on Sunday there is a brand new event and it is actually free. The Stay Active Oromocto 5-km is a family oriented event in support of Mental Health Awareness. Learn more at https://events.runnb.ca/event/stay-active-oromocto-5k/20453/
The triathletes will be busy in Fredericton at the Duncan Hadley Triathlon and Duathlon. This is one of our longest standing triathlons and always has lots to over every member of the multisport community. The spirit of the late Dr Duncan Hadley is always pervasive in this event and his ready smile and amazingly curious mind would love to see so many people enjoying sport in his name. Get all the details of this event at http://www.duncanhadleytriathlon.ca/ there is a race for you, from Try-a-Tri to the Olympic Distance Triathlon and everything in between.
Last weekend in Beresford the 10-km Chaleur Banque Nationale had some very fast times as Bryan Thomas of Nord Tetagouche was the man’s winner in 33:52 ahead of Mathieu Morrison of Bathurst (34:00) and Greg Sawyer of Edmunston (34:46). Emily Hamilton of Halifax was the top woman in 38:51 for the 10-km followed by two Moncton runners, Mary-Beth Jaillet (40:51) and Anouk Pelletier (41:05). The 5-km was won by May Linda Boudreau of Dunlop in 24:02 ahead of Kassy Leger of Ste Louise in 24:14 and Fanie Boudreau of Petit-Rocher in 24:18. Jeremie Roy of Alcida led the men in 17:50 followed by Cedric Hache of Ste-Rosette in 18:54 and Raymond Caissie of Richibouctou Village in 19:34 (pretty fast for a man from the over 70 age group). Meanwhile in Fredericton the MAF Flyin Feet 5-Miler went to hometown runners Lars Schwarz (29:34) and Patricia Kelly (37:21).
In Hampton at the Hampton Ladies Triathlon the Sprint Triathlon went to Eryn Weldon of Moncton in 1:15:21 followed by Carlie Lemoine of Hampton in 1:16:28 and Michaela Kearns of Lower Coverdale in 1:17:26. The Duathlon was won by Rebecca Dolson of Richibucto Road in 1:03:47 ahead of Kim Perry of Quispamsis in 1:12:27 and Kerrie Luck of Quispamsis in 1:13:05. Florence Levesque of Dieppe was the top Junior in 46:59. Congratulations to the organizers, this was the largest women’s triathlon ever held in Atlantic Canada.
This week our Person on the Run goes to a Grandmother and Mother who completed the Hampton Triathlon the day after the grandchildren completed the Splash and Dash. Sue Delong and daughter Robyn McKinnon are true role models for their kids and for the community showing physical activity is for us all.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
This weekend the largest women’s triathlon in Atlantic Canada takes place in Hampton. The Hampton Ladies Triathlon takes place Sunday in support of the KV Domestic Violence Outreach. This is always an emotional uplifting event, check it out at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15548/erdinger-alkoholfrei-hampton-ladies-triathlon-duathlon-2018
The runners start rolling Saturday with the MAF Flyin Feet Five Miler in Fredericton. This event highlights the beautiful, and challenging Odell Park in the heart of the Capital City. Learn more at https://events.runnb.ca/event/maf-flyin-feet-five-miler/20403/
On the same day in Oromocto the Army 10-km offers a 5-km and 1-km in addition to the signature event. One of the few cross country courses on the schedule it has been a popular stop for runners since 2005. Read all the details and register at https://events.runnb.ca/event/army-10k/22054/
Further north on Saturday the 10-km Chaleur Banque Nationale has a 5-km and 10-km option lined up for your running pleasure. All the fun starts at 11 a.m. and features a rich history with records held by no less than Joel Bourgeois (29:35) and Patty Blanchard (35:49) at the 10-km distance. Read more at https://events.runnb.ca/event/10-km-chaleur-banque-nationale-ckle/20793/
On Sunday in the Miramichi it’s the June 5-km on a very fast course. The Miramichi River Runners have a tradition of excellence and this is sure to be another great event. Learn more at https://events.runnb.ca/event/10-km-chaleur-banque-nationale-ckle/20793/
Last weekend in Moncton the Duathlon was a cold windy affair but there were some red hot performances. In the men’s event Cedric Boily of Moncton led the way in 56:15 ahead of Lee Roy of Bathurst (58:00) and Alexandre L’Heureux of Hanwell (59:36). For the women it was Donna Trites of Fredericton in 1:08:57 followed by Erica Doucet in 1:11:14 and up and comer Carol-Ann MacDonald of Notre-Dame in 1:12:06. All these great female athletes were also age group winners. Congratulations to all finishers for taking on a tough day.
In Grand Bay-Westfield the Rave Run was the Provincial 5-km championships. The men’s champion is Fredericton’s Justin Young in 17:28 followed by Roy Clavette of Oromocto (19:51) and Marcel Comeau of Moncton (20:19). The women’s champ is Sacha Hourihan of Southfield in 18:14 followed by Sue Teakles of Sussex Corner in 22:01 and Nadine Jackson of Beaver Harbour in 22:12.
At the Running Start Community Race in Fredericton the 3-km event went to Connor Whitman of Maugerville (16:52) and Gracie Kaley of Hanwell (13:53). The 5-km event was won by Chris Bangay of Fredericton in 22:00 for the men and Jensen Thomas in 23:10 for the women. Chrystal Allen of New Maryland took the women’s 10-km in 54:50 while the men’s event went to Darryl Johnstone of Fredericton in 43:23.
Further afield, Chris Watson formerly of Rothesay was a late entry into Ironman Lanzarote in Canarias Spain, but still managed an amazing 11:08:45 finish and 188th place out of 1594 athletes from around the world.
This week our Person on the Run goes to Zach Boulanger. At the Moncton duathlon, after a great first run in 5th position, he had 2 flats on the bike and had to run barefoot carrying his bike into transition. However, never giving up, he took off on the second run and managed 4th place in that segment. That is true grit.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
Hey runners, if you can’t find a run for this weekend you aren’t trying hard enough, it is action packed. On Saturday in Grand Bay-Westfield the River Valley Rave Run offers up a flat and fast 5-km as the Provincial Championships. This is the 14th running of the Rave Run and it has a history of amazing performances so register today at https://events.runnb.ca/event/14th-annual-river-valley-rave-run/14731/
On the same day Moncton is hosting the 2nd Annual Crossman Invitational Mile https://events.runnb.ca/event/2nd-annual-crossman-invitational-open-mile/20219/ and the Fisher Cats 5-km Fun Run https://events.runnb.ca/event/2nd-annual-crossman-invitational-open-mile/20219/ perfect for the whole family. In Fredericton it is the Running Start Community Race with race distances from 1-km to 10-km all enjoying the beautiful trail system in the Capital City, check it out at https://events.runnb.ca/event/2nd-annual-crossman-invitational-open-mile/20219/
The fun isn’t over yet and we are still on Saturday. In Quispamsis it’s the Valley Christian Academy’s 3rd Annual Family Fun Run with a 1-km and 5-km option. Learn more and register at https://events.runnb.ca/event/2nd-annual-crossman-invitational-open-mile/20219/
On Sunday in Tracadie the 368th running of the Demi-marathon de l’Acadie is hoping to finally have a snow free event. This monthly event has braved rain, snow, wind and more so let’s hope for a sunny Sunday this month, get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/368e-demi-marathon-de-lacadie/19962/ Meanwhile back in Moncton it is the Greater Moncton Running Club’s Nickle and Dime 5-km Race. This is an initial offering from the Club and looks to have some real potential. Learn all about it at https://events.runnb.ca/event/gmrc-nickle-and-dime-5km-race/23664/
On Thursday the R.a.T. Race continues at Rockwood Park in Saint John. This weekly trail run series has been very popular and highlights some of the great trails of one of Canada’s largest urban parks. Get the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/gmrc-nickle-and-dime-5km-race/23664/
Beginning June 4th in Saint John the Little River Reservoir Runners come into existence as a “running club for everyone” and they really mean it. Get the details at https://www.facebook.com/LittleRiverReservoirRunners/
Last weekend records fell like trees at the Cross Town for Crosswinds in Sussex. In the 5-km new records were set for both men and women as Bryan Thomas bettered his own record with a 16:45 while Mary-Beth Jaillet set a new women’s record at 20:59. At 10-km Sacha Hourihan beat her own record with a 36:58. In the half marathon Trevor Funk set a new men’s mark at 1:17:12 while Adrienne Fullerton eclipsed her own record with a 1:39:15. Second place in the men’s half marathon went to Liam Funk of Saint John in 1:35:59 and third to Pat O’Brien of Moncton in 1:37:55. For the women second place went to Kalyn Sharma of Picadilly in 1:47:09 and third to Julie Brown of Quispamsis in 1:48:38. An amazing day of racing.
In Fredericton at the Runway 5K Run the men were led by Fredericton’s Nikolay Ryabkov in 18:16 followed by Donald Evans of Oromocto in 18:33 and Tim Weibe of New Maryland in 19:24. Rebecca Dolson of Richibucto Road was the top woman in 19:34 followed by Fredericton runners Donna Trites (21:12) and Kelsey Tucker (21:23).
The third running of the R.a.T.Race in Saint John was a family affair as Shelley Doucet of Quispamsis (29:09) and husband Evan Doucet (29:50) were the top male and female runners on a tough trail run in Rockwood Park. Glenn Trites was the second male in 30:34 followed by Brent Marr in 35:13. Marcie Holland took the silver spot for women in 37:47 followed by Sarah Holland in 44:18.
This week our Person on the Run is a Team on the Run with a pretty impressive record at the Cabot Trail Relay. The Fredericton Trailmasters have won 4 out of 5 years as a team including this year’s version. Congratulations on another great year.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
The long weekend in May is the unofficial start of summer in New Brunswick and we have some great running events coming up to celebrate it. On Thursday there is another chance to get into the R.a.T. Race at Rockwood Park. It’s a low cost no frill night out with other runners (or walk/runners) and you can get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/rockwood-r-a-t-races/22630/
On Saturday there are a couple of interesting options. In Saint John it is the Port City Beer Run starting at noon at the Diamond Jubilee Cruise Terminal. There are plenty of choices, so try a 3-km, 5-km or 10-km run then try the great beverages from over a dozen local suppliers. Get registered at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15908/port-city-beer-run-2018
On the same day in Fredericton you can take off on the 2018 YFC Runway Run in Fredericton. This is a great event for the whole family, a great 5-km run on the runway but an even bigger event and fun day for the entire family. Check it all out at the following link and do your part to help support the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick. The details are at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15908/port-city-beer-run-2018
On Sunday it’s Across Town for Crosswinds in Sussex. This family friendly event features everything from the 0.5-km Kids run to a fast half marathon with a 1-km, 5-km and 10-km in between. It is a great event in support of the Crosswinds Occupational Activity Center. Get all the information and register at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15908/port-city-beer-run-2018
Last weekend the Run for Renee had some excitement in Quispamsis. Two men eclipsed the previous men’s record as Evan Arsenault went one second under with a 15:34 and Matt McNeil of Halifax (but a Saint John native) nailed a new record that will be hard to beat at 14:47. The women’s record also took a beating as the current record holder Sacha Hourihan did herself one better with a 17:35. Third place for the men went to Kevin Curnock in 17:32 while on the women’s side Claire Oliver was second in 21:24 and Suzanne Doucet third in 22:13. Overall 11 personal bests were set in that race, it shows how a fast front runner can pull the entire field to better performances.
At Hopewell Rocks the Hopewell Rocks 8-km Multi-Terrain Race had a record registration of over 200 runners and the results were great. In the men’s race Kevin Heppell of Charlo led the way in 39:23 ahead of Jason St-Onge of Moncton in 39:45 and Jeff MacPhee closely behind in third at 39:48. The women’s event was won by Maggie McClure of Halifax in 41:07 followed by Renee Embree of Saint John (41:48) and Melanie Hamill of Wellington (43:12).
At the Rompin Rockwood the 50-km went to Andrew Jarvais of Oromocto in 4:57:17 for top spot ahead of Eric Girard (5:32:48) and Joel Monsvelt(5:43:33). For women to Kelsey Hogan of Steady Brook NL in 6:09:24 followed by Krista Kierstead in 7:20:02. The 25-km was won by Eric Mauricette of Baileyville in 2:20:00 for the men ahead of Michel Poirier (2:25:57) and Trevor Nason (2:25:59). Marcie Holland of Saint John took top spot (2:45:20) for the women followed by Rosanna Lamb (3:00:58) and Sheryl Hiemstra(3:04:45).
Also in Rockwood, the R.a.T. Race had its’ second running and no surprise, Shelley Doucet led the way for the women (and overall) in 28:43 followed by her sister Marcie Holland in 37:29 and Sarah Holland in 47:35. The men were led by Shelley’s husband Evan Doucet in 33:15 ahead of Brian Head (34:49) and Brent Marr (34:49). Congratulations to all finishers, it is nice to see a weekly trail running opportunity in Rockwood.
This week our Person on the Run goes to Sacha Hourihan for once again setting a new record for the Run for Renee with a blistering 17:35 finish, great work.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
On the Run
May 14, 2018
Fasten your seatbelts, this long weekend has plenty of running action around the Province, especially for trail runners. The fun starts early with the Rockwood R.a.T. Race on Thursday at 6:30 (https://events.runnb.ca/event/rockwood-r-a-t-races/22629/ ) and rolls right into the weekend. On Sunday at Hopewell Rocks it’s the Hopewell Rocks Multi-terrain 8-km. This unique event includes road, trail and even the ocean floor. It is a challenging event but with more than enough beauty to make you forget the hard work. Check it out at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15359/hopewell-rocks-multi-terrain-8k-race-2018
Also for the trail runners we have the Rompin Rockwood 10k, 25k and 50k Trail Ultra. This race has something for everyone and features one of the premier urban parks in the country. You can learn more and get registered at https://www.hackmatacktrailracing.com/rompin-rockwood-10k25k50k.html
For the road runners, there are also a couple of great opportunities. In Miramichi the Miramichi 10-km will be hosted by the Miramichi River Runners at 9 a.m. on Sunday. You can register on site for this long standing event that dates back to 1984. Get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/miramichi-10km/20853/
Also on Sunday, in Quispamsis it is the May Run for Renee. This fun and fast course is certified and gives you a great opportunity to set a personal best or chase down an official record. Register now at https://events.runnb.ca/event/may-run-for-renee-5k/20500/
The big event last weekend was the Fredericton Marathon with record breaking performances to celebrate the 40th anniversary. The Marathon had a new record set by Jean-Marc Doiron of Moncton in 2:33:45 for first place, Oromocto’s James MacLellan also broke the old record finishing second in 2:34:15 and Ryan O’Shea of New Maryland finished the podium with a 2:48:56. The women’s winner defender her title from 2017. Heather O’Donnell slipped in under 3 hours with a 2:59:57
ahead of Emily James of Rothesay (3:02:11) and Maura Wierczorek of Halifax (3:10:07).
The women’s half marathon was a tight finish as Morgan Hawkes (Halifax) won in 1:31:31 ahead of Charlottetown’s Daun Lynch (1:31:42) and Jennie Orr of Halifax (1:32:07). The men’s event went to Lee Wesselius of River Glade in a new course record 1:11:09 followed by Richard Sukiennik of Bangor in 1:14:22 and Adam Kellar of Guelph in 1:16:57.
The 10-km saw another record fall as Shelley Doucet of Quispamsis ran an incredible 35:57 for top place among women and third place overall. Second place went to Rochelle Johnston of Moncton in 39:50 and third to Melanie Loveridge-Spinney of Hanwell in 40:57. For the men hometown boys took the top two spots as Lars Schwarz ran a 34:56 and Justin Young a personal best finish in 35:26. Third place went to Bryan Thomas of Nord Tetagouche in 36:49. The 5-km for men went to Francois Richard of Dieppe in 17:46, second place to Chuck Dixon of Sackville in 17:54 and Zachary Boulanger of Saint John was third in 18:02. In first place for the woman was Rebecca Dobson-Edge of Fredericton in 20:14 followed by a pair of young runners, Madeleine McLeod of New Maryland (20:31) and Claire Oliver of Grand Bay-Westfield (21:34). The 3-km event went to another hometown girl Kelsey Tucker in 12:06 for the women and Aaron Sellars of Moncton in 9:56. The one-miler was crazy fast with Emily Trites of Fredericton leading the way for women in 5:14 while Michael Colford of New Maryland was exactly a minute faster in 4:14.
This week our Person on the Run goes out to a guy on a long run indeed. This past weekend in his first 100-mile race Tim McDonough of Saint John took third place at the Riverlands 100 in Maine. Great work Tim.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
Finally, the sun is shining and the weather is warming up. It has been a tough week for people living along the mighty St. John River so maybe a bit of celebration is in order. In Fredericton this weekend it is the 40th anniversary of the Fredericton Marathon. This is truly an endurance event having faced down weather, floods and all the challenges of a huge public event. With another year of flooding challenges for the beautiful course that highlights the river, organizers are giving assurances they are ready for any contingency. You can choose your distance from 3-km to the full marathon as well as a number of options to double up by running two, or even three events over the weekend. For more information and to register go to http://frederictonmarathon.ca/index.php
For a slightly smaller event to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend, check out Les pionniers cours pour les meres/Les Pionniers run for Mothers 5-km. This event takes place at Ecole des Pionniers in Quispamsis on Saturday at 10 am. It is a fast course in a beautiful neighbourhood, perfect for a personal best run. You can learn more at https://events.runnb.ca/online-registration/event/les-pionniers-cours-pour-les-m-res-les-pionniers-run-for-mothers-5k/20392/
On Thursday night this week in Saint John an 8-week series of Thursday night runs begins in Rockwood Park. The Rockwood R.a.T. Race is a 6.5-km loop through the amazing trails of Rockwood Park. It is a great chance to gage your progress through the season by using this course as a benchmark. Every Thursday night for 8-weeks at 6:30. Get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/rockwood-r-a-t-races/22214/
Last week in Memramcook it was the Demi Marathon Coeurs Chaud/Warm Hearts Half Marathon. In the half marathon it was super star Lee Roy of Bathurst leading the way in 1:17:23 ahead of Steve Handel of Dieppe (1:25:56) and Kevin Leblanc of Memramcook (1:27:12). The women’s half marathon went to Julie Belanger of Shediac in 1:53:09 while second place went to Guylaine Chiasson of Haute-Aboujagane in 2:09:54 and third to Riley Higdon of Saint John in 2:25:37.
In the 10-km event the women were led by Sophie Comeau of St Charles in 43:17 followed by Andrea Burris of Truro in 49:07 and hometown runner Kristen Gaudet grabbed third place in 51:24. The men’s winner was Colin Burris of Truro in 40:26, Michel Leger of Dieppe was second in 46:38 and Mathieu Landry of Grand Barachois was third in 47:41. Mixime Aube of Dieppe won the men’s 5-km in 21:26 while Monica Leblanc of Memramcook was the top woman in the 5-km with a 25:05 finish.
At the Demi-marathon de l’Acadie this past weekend, the always fast Mathieu Fortin of Caraquet was the fastest man in 1:24:49 followed by Jonathan Legault of Dieppe in 1:25:35 and Gary Kenny of Tracadie in 1:33:45. Nathalie Theriault-Roy of Beresford managed a PB for the women’s win in 1:36:12 ahead of Roxane Pelletier of Petit-Rocher in 1:36:22 and Nathalie Bovin of Bathurst in 1:36:39. .
This week our Person on the Run goes to one of our Trail runners. Trail running is really taking off in New Brunswick and this week a new 8-week series begins in Rockwood Park thanks to Marc Gallant. Great idea Marc, thank you.
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
A great weekend ahead for New Brunswick runners. It all starts on Saturday in Memramcook with the Demi marathon Coeurs Chaud-Warm Hearts Half Marathon. This race has it all from kids races up through 5-km, 10-km and up to the half marathon distance. Everyone gets a finishers medal and 5-km, 10-km and half marathon finishers get a t-shirt. Learn more at https://raceroster.com/events/2018/15562/demi-marathon-coeurs-chauds-warm-hearts-half-marathon
The next day in Tracadie it’s the 367th running of the Demi-marathon de l’Acadie. This is truly a classic that every runner in New Brunswick should run at least once in their running career. Every month since way back in 1987 runners have braved cold winter storms and sweltering summer heat to keep up the tradition. It is clean and simple, one distance, one route, one great time. Register now at https://events.runnb.ca/event/367e-demi-marathon-de-lacadie/19602/
At the same time in Moncton, Un Phare dans la Nuit/A Beacon in the Night offers a 5-km on a closed course at the Moncton Stadium. A Beacon in the Night is also an awareness campaign hoping to demystify the prejudice around mental health issues. Get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/un-phare-dans-la-nuit-a-beacon-in-the-night/22284/
Last weekend the big event was the 15-km Grande Digue. This is a race with a tradition of both inclusion and excellence so the winning times are always impressive. In the men’s 15-km the leader was Lee Wesselius of River Glade in 50:32 ahead of Alex Neuffer of Stratford PEI in 51:12 and Kyle Smith of Halifax in 52:30. The women were led by Sacha “The Beast” Hourihan of Southfield in 57:43 for a convincing win over a pair of Moncton runners who had a real race for second place, Rochelle Johnson (1:01:26) and Anouk Pelletier (1:01:48). At the 5-km distance the women’s event was won by Josianne Guay of Edmundston in 20:31 followed closely by Dartmouth’s Stacy Chestnutt in 20:43. Third place went to Sylvie Leblanc of North Tetagouche in 24:43. The men were led by Vince Leclair of Balmoral in 18:41 ahead of Maxime Aube of Dieppe (20:38) and Adam (last name missing from results) of Shediac River in 22:49. The 15-km walk for men was won by Pierre Godbout of Grand Digue in 2:16:17 ahead of Louie Richard of Moncton (2:41:59) and Alan Belleville of Shediac (2:42:29). The women’s 15-km walk was dominated by Dieppe walkers, Gisele Devarennes (2:07:57) Charline Richard (2:11:44) and Julie Richard (2:13:34).
One of the great programs of Run NB that we don’t report results on because of the philosophy of the program is the Small Strides, Healthy Lives running program for kids sponsored by the NB Medical Society. This program offers medals for all kids who participate in events offered in parallel with adult runs around the Province. Last week the 15-km Grand Digue and this weekend’s races A Beacon in the Night and Warm Hearts Half marathon all offer the Small Strides, Healthy Lives events for the kids. Kudos to the run organizers for including this very important program for kids.
This week our Person on the Run goes to an amazing man from Tracadie. Donald Wade is the race director of the Demi-Marathon de l’Acadie every month no matter the weather. But this past weekend he laced them up and took on the 5-km in Grand Digue. Another example of what makes our running community in New Brunswick so great. Merci Donald.
Gotta run
Finally, things are warming up, just on time for a running season that is heating up quickly. This weekend in Grande Digue it is the 15-km de Grande-Digue. This event is so
popular they have had to set a cap of 350 entrants so be sure to register soon. It is a very inclusive event with a 15-km run, a 15-km walk and a 5-km walk/run. It isn’t unusual to see a former Olympian and a weekend jogger both out there doing their thing and this community based event. To learn more and to register go to https://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=14771
If you are in the Saint John area and looking to get involved in Trail running you might want to check out the 6 week learn to Trail run at River and Trail Outdoor. This is a very popular program and it not only helps get you started in the sport, it introduces you to all the best running trails around the area. You can learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/188303485145618/
Last weekend a traditional spring run came up with a great new twist that was literally felt around the world. The Brent Kelly 5-Miler added a new “virtual run” option that allowed participants anywhere in the world to participate where they are and receive a t-shirt and finishers medal. So in addition to the runners at the Irving Nature Park remembering Brent through their run, 39 runners from Mount Uniacke to Friuli Italy, from Borden to Belgium, even on Caribbean Cruise ships completed 5-miles all to honour the late Brent Kelly and to help raise money to keep kids active in our community. Six countries outside of Canada and six provinces within Canada were represented in the virtual run.
The women’s race went to the very fast Erin Vringer of Saint John in 32:32 continuing her great running from last season. Second went to Renee Embree of Saint John in 35:22 and third to Sue Teakles of Sussex Corner in 38:23. The men were led by Evan Arseneault of Quispamsis in 28:01 ahead of Dean Strowbridge of Saint John in 31:28 and Nikolay Ryabkov of Fredericton in 32:13.
Another new innovation this year was the Canicross event that has dog owners joined by their favourite pooch for a run. These guys were amazingly fast and would have been right up front in the regular 5-Miler. The women’s race was won by Sarah Peel of Hampton in 32:51 followed by Lisa McFarlane of Moncton in 34:28 and Amelie Aikman of Grand Bay-Westfield in 39:09. For the men it was Ryan Mairead of Saint John in 52:48 ahead of Jadon Mellor of Hampton in 54:48 and Todd Fraser of Nauwegiwauk in 1:35:42. That is a very impressive day of racing for dogs and runners alike. Congratulations to race director Marta Kelly on a great success around the world.
In Sussex another innovator was hard at work as Alex Coffin offered the Sussex Swim Run to kick off the Triathlon season. The top man was Alexandre Boule of Saguenay in 28:34 followed by Martin Larose of Oromocto in 30:03 and Stephen Handel of Dieppe in 32:19. The women’s event went to Isabelle Turner of Oromocto in 36:17 followed by Frederick Morissette of Oromocto in 44:17 and Angelina Hermenier of Pearsonville in 47:38. It was great to see a mix of ages and abilities out enjoying this event.
Last week our Person on the Run went to a very active Mom and this week it goes to a very active Dad. Shane Dickie of Quispamsis is a triathlete, a Dad of three young children (including twin boys), works full time and often is organizing training sessions for active friends on the weekend. This week he was 3rd in his age group at the Sussex Swim Run and is our Person on the Run. Great job Shane.
Gotta run
Spring just doesn’t seem to want to catch hold but that isn’t stopping the athletes from getting into the race season.
On Saturday in Sussex the triathletes get a great early opportunity to test their winter training with the Sussex Swim, Run and Bike. This is a great way to ease into the season. The swim will start things off and the athletes will transition directly into the run. Then there is a small break after which athletes will reconvene for an optional bike portion. There is also a speakers’ series following the activity to give athletes an opportunity to pick up some great tips before they get too deeply into the season. For more information, go to https://www.sussextriathlon.org/
Also on Saturday in Saint John is the always popular Brent Kelly 5-Miler at the Irving Nature Park. There couldn’t be a more beautiful location nor a more compelling cause than raising funds for Pro Kids in the name of the late Brent Kelly. Brent was a young athlete taken too soon by a rare heart disease, he loved to train in the Irving Nature Park and during those tough hills on the back side you can almost feel him giving you a little push. The start time is 9 a.m. and you can get all the details at https://events.runnb.ca/event/brent-kelly-memorial-5-miler/19980/
Also this month across the Province there is a new program called Walk or Run to Quit. This program uses walking and running 10-week programs to help reduce smoking. And it really works with reports of up to 50% of participants quitting in a six month follow up. You can do a virtual program or join a group at your local Running Room. To learn more go to https://www.runtoquit.com/register-run-to-quit-training-new-brunswick-p199627
Last weekend of course was the Boston Marathon and the weather was brutal. As previously reported New Brunswick athletes certainly were up to Mother Nature’s challenge and our Province can once again be very proud of our athletes.
A couple of my favourite stories are about athletes showing grit, like Colin McQuade of Riverview running in memory of his late Mom just weeks after both she and her brother passed away only weeks apart. Then pushing through the miserable weather to finish in 3:00:47. Or Paul Sands of Saint John still running great in his sixties and hit a 3:39:18 to qualify again for next year by over 30 minutes. How about Brenda Guitard, the running legend, getting it done with that permanent smile. But the story of the day for me comes from further back in the pack. From a man who doesn’t spend much time at the back of the pack judging by his 12 straight Boston Marathons. Steve Lohnes has been under the magic 3:00 barrier just a few years ago, but this year there were demons. He was very sick on race day but was determined to not break his streak so he gutted out a very tough 5-and-a-half-hour marathon in driving rain. Attacked from within by the flu bug, from without by the weather, but fortified in his character with the strength that would never let him quit, he got it done. And that my friends is exactly what the Boston Marathon is all about.
Closer to home, the Run for Renee (R4R) had a clear crisp day for the first running of the season and judging by the number of personal best times the conditions were great. We don’t have the hometowns for the participants but let’s check the women’s results first. The top finisher was the amazing Erin Vringer in a quick 19:07 followed by Mary Bartlett in her first R4R in 21:21 and Kari Parsons just behind in 21:44. The men were very fast as Evan Arsenault led the way in 16:25 followed by Justin Young in 17:46 and Anderson Peters in 18:18. It was great to see runners from the early teens to the late seventies enjoying this event.
This week our Person on the Run goes to Evan Doucet of Quispamsis for crushing Boston with a PB of 3:00:22 in the driving rain. Evan is a great race organizer and can burn up a course as well. Great work!
Gotta run
Daryl Steeves
Weekly Running Columnist
