The Handloggers Half (HLH) Marathon Trail Race is all set to go again on Labour Day weeken. Once again, this year’s proceeds from the race will support two worthy causes.
A portion of race proceeds and special donations will go to the newly formed Bowen Island Trail Society (BITS). BITS is a volunteer organization dedicated to building and maintaining a well-integrated community trail network for non-motorized trail users on Bowen Island. BITS has been busy doing maintenance on sections of the Skid Trail, Handloggers Trail and the Mid-Island Trail to improve sections of the race course which are becoming treacherous for running, hiking and mountain biking, because they are getting worn and washed out. BITS is looking for new members (including runners, riders, and hikers) interested in supporting trail development initiatives on Bowen.
Another portion of race proceeds will also continue to support developments at the Akili All Girls Preparatory School in Kisumu, Kenya. Alison Osborne from Bowen Island continues to work with the school founders David Omondi and Erick Otieno to support the construction and operation of a school focused on educating and empowering the girls and women in their community. The Akili Girls’ Preparatory School is a gateway out of poverty for both the students and the teachers. Funds donated are used to give women and girls a chance to succeed through quality, free education; this community is beginning to transform through a collective effort.
This year the race will get under way at 9am on September 2 just next to the ferry dock with the spectacular finish on the causeway. This beautiful course around Mount Gardner can be run solo (open class) or as a three person relay. We are expecting a larger turnout this year based on the current interest in registration with regional, inter-provincial and international runners joining the event.
Great prizes will once again be offered to the top men, women, youth and relay teams. We are once again very grateful for the support of all of our sponsors that have donated prizes, food, and water and to the amazing group of volunteers that help with organizing, preparing and administering the race.
For more information and to register online before September 1 at visit handloggershalf.com We look forward to seeing you there!
