The annual tradition of Run for the Ferry has attracted runners from Bowen as well across the Lower Mainland since 1995. This year, the event will change its name and take on a slightly different look and feel.
Run for Rwanda will take place on Saturday, August 27, the morning of Bowfest.
In the past, the run has been a fundraiser for various groups such as Bowen Island Children's Centre and the housing association. For the last four years it has been organized and coordinated by a committee led by Richard Best. Best has done an extraordinary job and now he feels the time has come for him to pass the reins on to a new leader.
No one had come forward until Bowen Rotarians Hilary and Robin Butler thought of the possibility of taking on this year's event as a fundraiser for the organization their daughter Margaret founded.
"Run for Rwanda is only taking the time slot of Run for the Ferry for 2011," Best says. "It is not taking over RFTF and it is not planning a run the scope of RFTF. The event is on hold for the year while it is seen if another local group who is also focused on creating a healthier community, is organizationally prepared to take on the event in 2012. The event requires a minimum of nine months to plan and a committee of about seven people dedicated to its smooth functioning."
For now, Bowen is fortunate to have the Butler family, long-time residents of Bowen, step up to the starting line.
Margaret Butler, who has lived and worked in Rwanda and is now based in Boston, grew up on Bowen and participated in organizing the run in its early years. Her new passion is The Komera Project. Komera means "be strong and have courage." It assist girls in Rwanda who have the courage and desire to pursue a secondary education but do not have the resources to do so.
"I was very lucky," Butler says. "I grew up in a family of educators. I know how important an education is."
Since Margaret lives in Boston, her parents will be pulling the race together for this year, although Margaret is arriving in August to help with the event.
To help volunteer, call Hilary Butler at 947-2315.
www.komeraproject.org
