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Merrython fun benefits everyone

The annual eight-kilometre run, four-kilometre walk and one-kilometre children’s event are organized by the Oak Bay Rotary Club
Merrython Jazzercise 2013 1
Jackie MacLean

Lace up, dress warmly and put on some antlers to get into the festive spirit and join the 34th annual Merrython Fun Run on Sunday.

The annual eight-kilometre run, four-kilometre walk and one-kilometre children’s event are organized by the Oak Bay Rotary Club, with proceeds going toward some of the causes the local service group supports.

They include the Peter Pan water park at Carnarvon Park, the teen centre that will be built in the new Oak Bay High and bike racks at Cattle Point. Last year, $3,500 was raised at the Merrython.

“We are working with a couple of elementary schools to purchase literary tools such as smartboards for their classes,” said event chair Leslie Rogers-Warnock. “We try to keep the money invested, allocated here.”

The Merrython was started by Henderson Recreation Centre staff to draw attention to its programs. Oak Bay firefighters then came on board and helped raise money for Santa’s Anonymous for 10 years. Three years ago, the Oak Bay Rotary Club took over the event.

Registration is $25 for adults and $5 for kids. Runner’s gloves will be on sale and Jazzercise instructors will be there leading a stretch and warm-up before the event.

Approximately 200 people participate in the event annually.

The silent auction that is usually part of the Merrython will not take place this year. Rogers-Warnock is hoping cash donations from local businesses, participant fees and sales of running gloves will make up the amount made from the auction.

The run starts at 10 a.m. at Henderson Recreation Centre, 2291 Cedar Hill X Rd. For more information or to register go to oakbay.ca.