This article has been edited to add results.
CORNWALL, Ontario -Runners from as far as Mexico and Kenya were registered to participate in the St Lawrence Marathon on Saturday, April 27.
With 675 racers expected in the 18th annual run, which was previously known as the Run to End MS, several individuals occupied the trails along the St. Lawrence River throughout the day, with some starting out from Crysler Park Marina in Morrisburg at 7 a.m. Many dedicated volunteers also contributed, enduring cool temperatures and drizzle.
Race Director Katie Verhoeven said this year’s weather was better than 2018 as she shouted words of encouragement and praise to each runner that passed the finish line at St. Lawrence College (SLC).
“This race is an example of everything amazing this region has to offer – beautiful scenery, awesome people, a supportive business community, and top notch collaboration and team work,” said Verhoeven in a press release. “It’s the result of 18 years of hard work and dedication from hundreds of volunteers and thousands of runners from near and far.”
Racers had the opportunity to compete in a 5 km, 10 km, half marathon or Boston Qualifying marathon run. Each race varied in price to enter. An award ceremony was held at St. Lawrence College around 11:30 a.m.
A total of 40 runners qualified for the Boston Marathon out of 180 marathon runners. Of those 40 includes locals Callie Smith, Ian Callan, Yvon Duval, Jacob Cameron and Christian Belair.
“There’s been lots of positive feedback from runners – in person, by email and on social. We’re thrilled the day was a success and, most importantly, that runners had an amazing day! Racers are mostly from out of town and we’re so proud to offer an event that showcases how awesome this region is,” said Verhoeven.
Marian Lordache of Montreal ran his third Cornwall marathon on Saturday, in the company of his wife.
“It is a nice place to run, very beautiful and quiet…and the people here are so friendly,” said Lordache.
Counties SDG, Choose Cornwall, and Cornwall & SDG Paramedics were title sponsors of the race.
