The Terry Fox Run in Richmond could be axed unless someone steps up to take charge of the event.
Since its inception in 2003, Richmond’s version of the fun run in Terry Fox’s memory has grown in size and stature every year, raising more than $200,000 for cancer research.
But after the event’s co-coordinator of 10 years, John Young, stepped down due to ill health in 2012, and last year’s head honcho, Susan Bernardino, had to step aside due to other commitments, no one has come forward to take the reins.
And with just a few months to go before the 2014 running at Garry Point Park, Young warned that, if they can’t find a new coordinator to corral the 10 committee members and 150 volunteers, the race will almost certainly be cancelled.
“We’ve been looking for another coordinator since January, along with another three committee members,” said Young.
“A lot of what’s needed for the event is already in place; the committees, the structure and the site for the run is booked.
“But I’m not going to pull the wool over the eyes of anyone who might be interested. Whomever it is has to be able to pull it all together and chair the committees.”
The run had been going sporadically for several years before Young stepped up in 2003 and helped elevate the event to what it is now, attracting more than 1,000 fun runners last year.
“I’d obviously be very, very disappointed,” said Young, as “we’ve managed to build up the Richmond event into one of the strongest Terry Fox Runs in the Lower Mainland.”
Young said the ideal candidate for the voluntary role is a retired person or someone with a fair bit of time on their hands.
“Someone with management experience would also be good and someone who can deal with finer details and is able to delegate responsibilities.
“Everyone is happy to help when you ask them, which is great. But few are willing to take charge and that’s what we need right now.”
Young added that 87 cents from every dollar donated to the event goes to cancer research and “that’s something to be proud of,” he said.
“I’m not sure how many other charities can claim that. You could be a part of that.”
If you can help, email John at [email protected].
