While there's no doubt Saskatchewan offers some great road races throughout the summer season, the road is only one way to experience the joys of running. There are trails to be discovered all throughout the province - it's just a matter of connecting yourself with people in the know - and then going for it!
At the end of August there's an opportunity to experience some fantastic trail running in Wapiti Valley at the Wapiti Bush Run. In this week's Q&A we speak with race director, Harvey Weber to learn more about this event.
Q&A with Harvey Weber
Tara: Let's start off by learning a bit more about the Wapiti Bush Trail, itself. Describe for us what makes this a destination trail for runners out there looking to experience more of what this province has to offer in terms of beautiful trails to explore.
Harvey: The Wapiti Bush Run is held in the beautiful Wapiti Valley near the Saskatchewan River just north of Gronlid on the Melfort Cross Country Ski Trails. These trails are beautiful to run; the trails meander through an amazingly scenic popular pine tree forest. The run course covers a rolling terrain which takes to you a vantage point that overlooks beautiful scenery.
Tara: What was motivated you to organize a race at the trail three years ago? And, what has continued to be the motivator for carrying on with the event, which is now entering into its third year?
Harvey: I wanted to organize a race that give runners an opportunity to run on the trails. With trail running getting more popular; I wanted to showcase these beautiful trails in North East Saskatchewan. The Melfort Cross Country Ski Club wanted to get people using the trails more in the summer as well; instead of just using the trails in the winter for XC skiing. Many people really like the race because of its uniqueness. I have tried to make it different from other races; especially from other road races. Past runners have asked me to continue to host the race each year.
Tara: There are 5.5K and 8.5K distance options, which opens this event up to a wide range of runners. How technically challenging is the course? And how much trail running experience, if any, do you recommend runners have before signing up?
Harvey: The trails are challenging but nothing like some of the big trail races in Western Canada or the Western States. People can either race, run, jog or even hike the 5.5K course. The 8.5K course is more hilly but perfect to race, run or jog. Most of the top runners race the 8.5K course, but a person could even jog this course. I suggest hikers entering into the 5.5K run just for time constraints to attend the amazing catered lunch and awards that are held at the Gronlid Hall after the run.
Tara: What have been some of the highlights from the first two years the Wapiti Bush Run?
Harvey: Some highlights of the race have been the diversity of the runners entering the race the last two years. There are the top university distance runners to local recreational runner who enter the Wapiti Bush Run. The event is designed for many types of runners. The youngest runners start 10 years-old and the oldest runner has been 77 years-old.
Tara: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Harvey: The Melfort Cross Country Ski Club and Tisdale Track Club use this race as a fundraiser. They both work together to put on a great event for the runners. As a runner, the Wapiti Bush Run is a great trail run to begin with before challenging more difficult races. The race is only a two hour drive from Saskatoon which makes it a great day trip. Also runners are welcome to camp out at the run starting line the night before.
Upcoming Events
Wapiti Bush Run
Get out and enjoy a beautiful trail run at the Wapiti Bush Run, being held on August 27 at 10 a.m. Choose from a 5.5K or 8.5K distance. All runners entering by Saturday Aug 12 will receive a unique "bush lunch" hosted by the Gronlid Willing Workers Catering Company.
This race is being hosted by the Tisdale Track Club and the Melfort X-C Ski Club. Proceeds of the race will go towards projects undertaken by these two clubs. For more information and tor register click here.
Queen City Marathon
This year's Queen City Marathon is being held on the weekend of September 8. Considered one of the premier running events in the province, this is a race consider getting on your list. There are racing options for everyone at this event! Click here to learn more.
YWCA Saskatoon Shine a Light Run
Shine a light on Friday, September 15 to raise awareness and funds for YWCA Saskatoon community programs - and help make a difference. Everyone is welcome to this event with distance options of 2K, 5K and 10K. The run gets started at sunset at Meewasin Valley. Register teams or individuals at http://www.ywcasaskatoon.com.
Tri-Unity Challenge
Registration for the 2017 Tri-Unity Challenge being held on August 12 is now open. Challenge yourself to walk, jog or run 18K, 8K or 3K - all while taking in the sights of Pasquia Regional Park in the Carrot River Valley. For more information and to register click here.
Product of the Week
Merrell Agility Peak Flex
Whether you're an experienced trail runner or just getting started, Brainsport has a great selection of trail running shoes for your next adventures. One of our newest arrivals is the Merrell Agility Peak Flex. While Merrell is best known for its minimalist shoes, the Agility Peak Flex combines more cushioning, while still staying true a natural, barefoot-type feel with the "Flex Connect" midsole. The substantial grooves in through the midsole make adaptable to uneven terrain, while the M Select GRIP+ outsole provides tremendous traction on wet or dry trails.
Thanks for reading the Times this week . . gotta run . . .Tara