VIDEO – Records fell creating a high level of excitement during the 20th annual Marathon Shuffle on Sunday, April 28.
A record number of participants, 184, took part in the event, hosted by Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society (PRPAWS). People either ran or hiked—or sometimes both—a 29-kilometre section of the Sunshine Coast Trail, from Malaspina Road to Shinglemill Pub and Bistro. Some chose the half-shuffle from Wilde/Tomkinson roads, which is also becoming a favourite with participants.
The winner of the men’s full shuffle, Craig Dunbar, who was running in the shuffle for the first time, shattered the record by nine minutes. Dunbar, a Powell River resident, came in at 2:45:36. He was followed by Cam Klassen at 2:59:55 and Mark Sloan at 3:01:56.
Another Powell River resident, Val Smith, won the women’s full shuffle race. She came in at 3:43:14, for a personal best. This year marks the fourth win for Smith, who also won in 2006, 2008 and 2009.
Melanie Sullivan came in second in the women’s race, at 3:54:15. Sisters Tegan and Caitlin Padgett came in together at 4:19:51 for a third-place win.
Numerous participants also set new personal bests. Reports indicated the route to be in the best-groomed shape ever and the weather provided perfect running and hiking conditions.
Times for all participants of both the full and the half shuffle will be available on the PRPAWS website, www.sunshinecoast-trail.com, by clicking on the Marathon Shuffle link on the home page, then clicking on details below the group starting picture, and finally on results and scrolling down to the 2013 information.
Many volunteers and donors helped make this year’s shuffle the record-smashing success that it was. Support staff were stationed along the way at seven locations and at the finish line, supplying water, juice, fruit and cookies, plus plenty of smiles and encouragement.
