Happy Athlete in Vancouver SunRun 2013
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We are introducing a brand new series of Photo Essays! Have a look at amazing Photo Sets all shot by talented photographers. Explore the vibe of the city, its hidden treasures, explore Vancouver! This time, let's have a look at Vancouver through the lens of Jim Walker!
Vancouver Marathon SunRun 2013
Vancouver SunRun: One of The Largest Road Races in North America
Meeting a number of joggers running down the street in the early morning is no rare sight in Vancouver — people in Canada are very proud of their active lifestyle and passionate about running. No wonder one of the largest road races in Northern America takes place every year in Vancouver, attracting more than 50,000 runners to this event!
The Vancouver SunRun (sponsored by The Vancouver Sun newspaper, which gave it its name) is an annual 10 kilometre marathon that has been held every third Sunday in April since its beginnings in 1985. From a small event with only 3,700 participants, it has grown in size and popularity, and today it's one of Canada's largest 10K road races. The motto of Sun Run that stems from its founders, former Canadian Olympians Dr. Doug and Diane Clement along with Dr. Jack Taunton, is to "promote health, fitness and community spirit and to support amateur athletics." Organizers encourage everyone to take part, regardless of the time it takes you to reach the finish line. The event has grown into a true phenomenon, as thousands of runners fill Vancouver's main streets and run towards the finish line in a celebration of their willpower and fitness — while of course taking in the beautiful scenery. It's a true welcoming of spring and the coming summer season.
Every year, the runners push their limits and put their training to the test. In this year's event, the champions finished the race with these times: Paul Kimugul from Kenya in only 29:04 minutes and the Canadian Natasha Fraser from Port Moody, BC, with an incredible 32:42 minutes. The start of the 29th annual Vancouver Sun Run held on April 21 lined Georgia Street. In light of the Boston Marathon's tragic event, many participants showed support by wearing Boston Bruins jerseys or ribbons around their arms. Luckily, the day of the marathon went by without any incidents.
The Vancouver Sun Run is a race with special divisions that reflect the diversity of its participants. Wheelchair athletes can compete for a $2,000 prize. And if you're not ready to complete the 10K race, you can take your whole family to the shorter 2.5K course, the Shaw Mini Sun Run, that's open to parents and kids and that features many activities, such as face painting — a guarantee that your kids will enjoy the day.
A true celebration of the spring and human endurance, this race inspires thousands of people. If you want to take part next time, you have the whole year for training and getting yourself ready! There's no better feeling than triumphing over yourself when you finally cross the finish line.
Did you take part this year? Let us know about your achievements and feelings in the comments below!
Thousands of Athletes Running Across the Burrard Bridge
After the start, people divided into smaller groups according to their pace.
This year's champion? Maybe!
Wheelchair athletes could compete for a $2,000 prize.
In light of the Boston Marathon's tragic event, many participants showed support.
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Meet the Photographer
Jim Walker
Jim is a self taught photographer who lives and works in Vancouver, British Columbia. Along with shootong local architecture and sporting events Jim can found hiking and taking photographs in the North Shore mountains, Garibaldi Park or across the border at Mt. Baker. As an avid traveler, Jim has especially enjoyed his trips to photograph the sights in major European cities such as Paris, Prague, Dubrovnik and Barcelona.