You can support a good cause and/or get some exercise just by lacing up your shoes and getting out the door for a jog. This list will keep you busy every weekend in October.
CIBC Run for the Cure
When:Â Sunday, October 3, 2021
Cost: Minimum $45 donation or minimum fundraising commitment starting at $150.
What it’s for: The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Proceeds raised support breast cancer research, education and community health grants.
Something to consider: This year, CIBC Run for the Cure will be held virtually and participants can customize their own avatar and fundraise to unlock fun avatar accessories and gear. On the same day, runners from across Canada will be participating in this race. Join the race virtually and attend the live stream opening ceremony.
Wild Run for Conservation
When: October 7 to 10 (virtual); October 10 (in person)
Cost: Prices vary.
Distance: 10 miles.
What it’s for: Formerly known as the Gorilla Run, the Wild Run raises funds for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, the Bonobo Conservation Initiative and others organizations to raise funds for mountain gorillas and other conservation efforts. The race has been taking place for the last 15 years and has raised almost $100,000 for animals facing extinction.
Something to consider: This is a hybrid event with both an in-person race and virtual race. If you don’t want to run the whole race, you can also sign up as a four-person relay team. For those who wish to participate virtually, try the new virtual relay experience.
St. Patrick’s Island Park, runyyc.ca
Alzheimer Walk and Run
When:Â October 8 to 11, 2021
Cost: Registration fee. Fundraising is encouraged.Â
What it’s for: All funds support local families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.Â
Something to consider: This event will be held virtually.The Thanksgiving weekend event has been a Calgary tradition for 30 years.
RBC Race for the Kids
When:Â October 16 to 17, 2021
Cost:Â Free. Fundraising is encouraged.
What it’s for: This race helps raise funds for the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Something to consider:Â This year, the event is virtual.
Dash of Doom
When: October 24 to 31, 2021 (virtual); October 30 (in person)
Cost: Starting at $35
Distance: One, five or 10 kilometres
What it’s for: This race supports the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, a local organization that rescues and helps animals who have been abandoned, surrendered or abused.
Something to consider: This is a Halloween-themed race and one of the city’s only pet-friendly road races. Bring your pooch, wear a Halloween costume, and if Fido will let you, dress him up in a costume too (there are even prizes for the best costumes). This is a hybrid event. The in-person run will be held on Saturday, October 30 while the virtual race window runs from October 24 to 31.
North Glenmore Park, runyyc.com
Halloween Howl
When: October 29 to 31 (virtual); October 30 (in person)
Distance: Three, five or 10 kilometres
What it’s for: This run/walk helps generate awareness and funds for diabetes research by the Alberta Diabetes Foundation.
Something to consider: Racers can attend the race in-person on October 30 at Fort Calgary or take part virtually between October 29 to 31. Halloween costumes are encouraged.