BORDEN-CARLETON, P.E.I. — With about a week before the Acadian World Congress kicks off, participants of the first event are lacing up their sneakers in anticipation.
Aug. 10 marks the opening of the congress, with the first Run Under the Star, held by Strait Crossing Bridge Limited.
“We wanted to get involved with the world congress and, since the congress is in P.E.I. and New Brunswick, having the Confederation Bridge involved as the link between the two hosting provinces would be a neat thing,” said project leader Danette Murray.
The run will start at midnight Aug. 10, with the bridge closing at 11 p.m. on Aug. 9 so participants can prepare for the event.
“We’re already sold out, with 1,000 runners. We have the full-length 13 kilometres and a 5-km option as well,” said Murray.
Out of the 1,000 participants, Shanice MacDonald will tackle the 13-km run.
“It’s something different. Ever since I got in running, the (Confederation) Bridge is the one that’s unique to run. And a night run has never been done before here. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
MacDonald is a seasoned runner, with 50 half marathons and nine full marathons under her belt.
“I run as much as I can. I try to take part in as many events as I can, especially if they’re on Island,” she said.
MacDonald started running seven years ago after giving birth to her first child and fell in love with the sport.
“It was first something to help lose the baby weight and it was something I could do on my own. I wasn’t getting calls or texts; it was me alone and able to just run. I’m little addicted to it now.”
One thing she’s known for when she runs in events is her sparkly running gear, she said.
“It’s me, everyone recognizes me by my sparkle, and it’s always a different coloured skirt and visor. It makes it more fun and adds a little fashion.”
The best thing for beginners to do is to keep a steady pace and enjoy their time, said MacDonald.
“Go in it without a time limit, pace yourself. Have fun and stop and take some pictures. Enjoy what's going on around you.”
She also said people will be there to help you along the way.
“Runners are so friendly, and they’re always encouraging each other.”
With Acadian-heritage in her family, MacDonald is thrilled to be in the run that begins the festivities for the congress.
“I love anything to do with running, and its great kicking the congress off with a running event. To be able to be a part of that, it’s really neat.”
The run will be a snippet of the events for the congress, as there will be plenty of things to do on the Island.
The Acadian World Congress is held every five years. This is the first time it’s been in P.E.I.
The event will begin in Abrams-Village on Aug.10 and continues on the Island until Aug. 14, when it crosses over to New Brunswick.
