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Record run for PAH fundraiser

Peace Arch Hospital's annual Pumpkin Run raises more than $80,000 Sunday.
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Costumed participants came to show their support for the hospital.



Batman was there.

Several Batmans, in fact, along with Catwoman, Wonder Woman, a number of clowns and at least one zombie.

They were among the dozens of colourfully costumed participants at Peace Arch Hospital Sunday morning in the annual pre-Halloween Pumpkin Run.

There were almost as many dogs in costume as well.

Organizers estimated more than 900 people participated in this year’s fundraiser for the Peace Arch Hospital ER.

The event has generated more than $115,000 for the hospital over the past five years.

In 2011, over 700 people attended and $56,000 was raised.

This year, organizers were hoping to raise more than $75,000 for the ER. The hospital foundation reported more than $80,000 was collected. And that number may rise as more pledges come in.

The top corporate donor was White Rock Optometry, which has been collecting money since June. The doctors there matched all patient donations, boosting the total to $8,700.

That amount will likely get bigger because the office plans to continue raising money for the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation until the end of November.

Local running champion and Olympic medalist Lynn Kanuka led the start of the 5K walk on a “street strider” that allows her to train without aggravating a foot injury that doesn’t permit high-impact exercise.

In the 5K run, Bob Durrant won the race with an unofficial time of 18 minutes, 51 seconds.

Sam Goski was the first woman to cross the finish line, with a time of 23:54.

Goski decided to donate her prize, a backpack, to another runner, a teenaged boy who managed to keep up with her during most of the race and even pulled ahead at the end.

“I have enough backpacks already,” Goski said.

Global TV weatherman Mark Madryga was the master of ceremonies and his mother, 77-year-old South Surrey resident Marcia Madryga, took part in the walk.

For more photos of the event, click here.

 

 



Dan Ferguson

About the Author: Dan Ferguson

Best recognized for my resemblance to St. Nick, I’m the guy you’ll often see out at community events and happenings around town.
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