Skip to content

Marathon Shuffle registration nears cap

Annual Sunshine Coast Trail marathon marks 24 years
marathon shuffle
SUNSHINE SHUFFLERS: Participants Stephen Gould and Angelina Williams descend a trail during last year’s Marathon Shuffle. Contributed photo

Registration numbers for this year’s Marathon Shuffle have already shattered expectations of organizers. Four days after registration for the 24th annual edition of the event opened, numbers were approaching the 450-participant cap.

“Every year this event gets more and more popular,” said Emma Larocque, a member of the organizing committee who is coordinating registration. “It’s a reflection of how well known and loved the Sunshine Coast Trail has become in Powell River, and around the province as well.”

Once the cap has been reached, registrants will be placed on a waiting list. Organizers encourage anyone who wants to take part to add their name. Many people who register early drop off the list as months pass, so those still waiting have a good chance to participate.

Due to interest in the event, and the cap, Larocque stresses the importance of people cancelling if it turns out they cannot participate. Their spots will then open up for those on the waiting list on a first-come, first-served basis.

This year’s shuffle takes place on Sunday, April 30, on a route that traverses Tla’amin Nation land, part of its treaty agreement that became effective last April.

Participants in the full 29-kilometre shuffle travel the Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT) from Malaspina Road to Powell Lake Marina. Those who prefer a half shuffle start at Wilde Road and also end at the marina.

Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society (PRPAWS) members started the shuffle in 1993 as a way to showcase the wonders of the SCT.

While most entrants choose to hike, trail runners also participate, with some eyeing the full shuffle record time of two hours, 13 minutes, set by Powell River’s Graham Cocksedge in the 2016 event. Female runners hope to better the record of two hours, 52 minutes, set in 2015 by Nicola Gildersleeve of Vancouver.

The event attracts runners and hikers from across the province and further away. Last year, a record number of 300 people participated, with half of those travelling to Powell River from out of town.

This year, organizers are highlighting the fact that the event takes place, rain or shine.

“We are reminding people that if they register, to please attend,” said PRPAWS president and organizing committee member Eagle Walz. “If they can’t make it, we’re asking that they let us know.”

The event helps to boost Powell River’s economy by attracting out-of-town participants, said Walz.

“When people register, then change their minds at the last minute, they are likely keeping visitors to our community from experiencing the Sunshine Coast Trail,” he said.

To cancel a registration, email sunshinecoasttrailbc@gmail.com.

While the event is free, donations to PRPAWS are encouraged and welcomed by the organization. All donations go toward trail maintenance and development, with all the work done by volunteers.

With a record number of participants, more volunteers than ever are required. Anyone interested in volunteering can email shufflevolunteer@gmail.com.

Members of the public can cheer participants on at key SCT intersections and access roads, or applaud them as they reach their goal at Powell Lake.

For more information, or to join the waiting list, visit sunshinecoasttrail.com/events.html.