The Rotary Club of Oak Bay raised about $3,000 during its 35th annual Merrython Fun Run on Dec. 7.
The event, which features an eight-kilometre run, four-km walk and one-km fun run for children, was started by the staff of the Henderson Recreation Centre in 1980 to draw attention to their fitness programs. The Oak Bay Fire Department took over the event for a decade before the Oak Bay Recreation Centre approached the Rotary Club of Oak Bay to use the event as a fundraiser for its many causes.
“It’s a great community partnership. The Oak Bay Recreation Centre now provides the framework for advertising, the link to the municipality and council for course and event approval, space for the event, safety equipment, etc.” said Rotary Club of Oak Bay past-president Heather Aked, who chaired the Merrython.
A total of 166 people registered for the run, which is expected to raise about $3,000.
“The money raised helps to support the Rotary Club’s projects both locally and internationally. Our emphasis is on youth and literacy,” said Aked.
The club has supported the George Jay, Macaulay and Quadra schools with smart boards, document projectors and musical instruments, while also providing assistance for international projects in Malawi, Rwanda, Guatemala, Mexico and India.
“Our thanks go to scores of sponsors and volunteers who have so willingly supported this year’s Merrython” said Aked.