
Despite a turbulent deluge of wind and rain, the steadfast resolve of more than 1,500 individuals ensured the successful execution of this year’s Legs for Literacy run. Three varying courses – 5K, 10K, and a full marathon, wound through the picturesque landscapes and quaint streets of Moncton, Riverview, and Dieppe on a memorably wet Sunday morning.
In existence for over two decades, this year’s event signaled the momentous return of the full marathon, marking it as the first full-scale iteration since 2018. The successful management and execution of such a large-scale event were not without challenges, met squarely by a committed team of 130 volunteers, led by experienced race director, Garth Millar.
For Millar, however, the laborious hurdles were outweighed by the joyous sight of marathon runners bounding across the starting line.“It’s a thrill, a shared excitement for the communities of Moncton, Riverview, and Dieppe. I’m optimistic about bigger, grander things next year,” mused an enthusiastic Millar.
When queried over what constituted the highlight of the day, Millar had a ready answer: “The crowning glory is unquestionably the radiant smiles of our 5k finishers as they cross the finish line. The satisfaction we derive from those triumphant moments is immeasurable.”
Amongst the numerous participants, Pablo Arison and Hannah Verboom were two brave souls who tackled the 5K race despite the merciless weather. Their verdict mirrored the general spirit – “Cold, but exhilarating,” in Verboom’s words. In her company, Arison, a seasoned participant of such events, expressed satisfaction at finishing what he confessed was a challenging race due to the unseasonably chilling weather.
Their sentiments were echoed by fellow runner, Meaghan Beale, who took on the 10K run alongside two of her co-workers. She appreciated the support of the audience, who despite the grim weather, cheered the athletes with genuine energy and warmth.
But spirits remained high as the cause that brought everyone there was a powerful one. Citing the International Dyslexia Association’s data, the event pointed to the prevalence of language-based learning variances in one in five people.
Board member of Legs for Literacy, Erin Tripp, shed light on the significance of the funds generated from this run. All proceeds have been pledged towards supporting various literacy programs designed to aid struggling students.
Tripp emphasized the importance of these non-profit organizations supplementing education, calling out New Brunswick’s less than commendable literacy record. She praised the efforts of such groups in bolstering the education system, lending much-required support to both educators and their students.
Among the sea of runners, High school teachers, Mary Fillmore and Armand Doucet, strongly resonated with the cause. Fillmore saw the event as a means to improve reading skills and opportunities for children, a cause she holds dear. Doucet, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of literacy and health, principles he staunchly supports.
The event this year witnessed an encouraging rise in participation, with 300 more runners than the previous year. With their sights set on a grander scale, the organizers hope to double the impressive $40,000 raised last year.