Russell Run Club's Weekly Run-Down February 9, 2025
- Tammy Williams
- Feb 10
- 4 min read
With all the fresh snow we've had, we're just bursting with snowshoe running this week: races completed, races to come and a snowshoe running demo.
In This Issue
UPDATE: Snowshoe Squall Registration Open for Spring Youth Programs
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Club News
UPDATE: Snowshoe Squall
It's just 2 weeks to Snowshoe Squall race day, and with all the new snow that has fallen, we're confident it is going to be a fantastic day
The Course
The course has been mapped out. A simple 5km loop around the Hammond Golf Course (2 laps for the 10km participants) has a little something for everyone. Of course, we also have a 1km course for kids.
The Prizes & Swag
We have great sponsors/supporters lined up to make the day even better:
Bushtukah will have a product display along with some swag for participants.
Liberty Caravans is displaying a caravan and providing hot chocolate to keep you warm from the inside out.
Spafford Health and Adventure has provided a fleet of snowshoes available for rent so not having the equipment is no excuse!
Broken Stick Brewery will be supplying post run beer and some cool prizes
Hammond Hill and Hammond Golf Course provide the venue and trail access. Say thanks by visiting their restaurant the Dandy Lion Brew Pub
The Russell Run Club will be providing race day support, post run chili and swag.
Of course, there are lots of prizes up for grabs, including a brand new pair of DION snowshoes courtesy of Spafford Health & Adventure & DION Snowshoes
The Medals
Of course we like cool awards for our top finishers - it makes for some fast time. Check out the prototypes of this year's awards.
Learn More about Snowshoe Running
Still not sure if snowshoe running is for you? Read more here about this unique sport.
Snowshoe running offers runners an effective way to maintain fitness during winter months. According to Canadian snowshoe running expert Derrick Spafford, this activity not only allows enthusiasts to enjoy snow-covered trails but also builds strength beneficial for spring races.
Transitioning to snowshoe running involves adjusting to slightly heavier footwear and a wider stance, but modern, lightweight designs facilitate a comfortable adaptation. Spafford recommends beginning with walking in running-specific snowshoes before progressing to jogging and running.
Or listen to this Athletics Ontario podcast featuring Derrick Spafford on how got into snowshoe running and created the snowshoe race series that we are now part of
Register Now
Online Registration closes Friday, February 21st at 8 PM. Onsite registration is available; however, late fees apply.
Registration Open for Spring Youth Programs
Winter is in full swing but it's never too early to plan for spring!
The spring editions of our Youth Running and Run, Jump, Throw programs are now open for registration, with the first session to take place on March 25, 2025.
The winter sessions were so popular we had to start a waiting list so don't wait to get registered for these very popular offerings.
We need volunteers!
The key to these successful youth programs is having a great group of volunteers. If you enjoy working with youth and are interested in helping to support and develop the next generation of healthy, active kids, reach out to Coach Michelle: michelle@russellrunclub.ca
New York Central Fitness Trail parkrun
While the trail was very snowy, it didn't prevent three runners from participating in parkrun number 140!
Snowshoes were on hand for those that wanted them but everyone braved the trail in shoes with varying reports from "beautiful" to "tough going".
Our volunteers decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather for a post-event snowshoe.
Parkrun is a free timed 5km run, walk or jog every Saturday at 9:00 AM. To register, go to https://www.parkrun.ca/register/. You only have to do it once. Remember to bring your barcode or take a screenshot of it on your phone.
What was the Russell Run Club Up To This Week?
Summerstown Snowshoe Race
Three club members toed the line for the Summerstown Snowshoe race on Saturday, February 8, 2025.
Sarah Poirier tackled the 4.6km course, finishing 3rd in a time of 36:18
Maurice Bonneville cleared the 7.5km distance in a time of 1:03:45
Coach Michelle also completed the 7.5km in a time of 50:46 making her 4th female and top master.
Snowshoe Running Demo
Part of getting ready for a snowshoe race is learning how to run in snowshoes.
The club hosted a free snowshoe running demo on Sunday, allowing anyone who wanted to try snowshoe running to borrow a pair of snowshoes for a trip around a set course. The runners agreed that running on snow is quite the workout.
We Want to Hear from You
Did you run a race or event this past weekend? What about a PR or milestone?
How about just a great run/walk in a new location?
Or do you want the community to know your story?
Feel free to share in the comments or email us at info@russellrunclub.ca.
This Week's Group Run Schedule
Here's what's on the calendar this week.
Want to join us? Please RSVP in the links below, shoot us a message or email (info@russellrunclub.ca)
Upcoming Events
Here is our calendar for events we organize, attend or support.
For a complete list, go to our website www.russellrunclub.com. For other upcoming races, go to https://www.runguides.com.
If you want to get all the updates real time, follow us on Social Media or sign up for weekly emails.
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Join the Russell Run Club Community Facebook Group to see what’s happening with our Members.
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