With the tragedy of a murder-suicide in the city last weekend, the timing for the Rotary Club’s seventh annual Tour de Airdrie road race couldn’t be better.
The event, which is scheduled for April 22 at Genesis Place, is a fundraiser for groups looking to end domestic violence.
“It’s a timely cause with what’s been happening in our community in the last week,” said Airdrie Rotary member Lori McRitchie, who will co-chair the race with Ceara Campbell.
“We’ve just had an incident that should bring home the reality that these things really do happen in our community. They deserve our attention and we need to come together to put a stop to this.
“We are looking forward to a race that will raise funds to help support some of the programs in our community that deal with domestic violence.”
A five-kilometre, a 10-kilometre and a 21-kilometre race will all start at 10 a.m. on the track behind Genesis Place.
Registration is $50 per participant, or $40 for early registration by April 13.
McRitchie said she is hoping for between 250 and 300 runners.
“I think it has made a name for itself. It’s a race that runners enjoy doing. It’s been a well-organized race,” she said. “We’ve had incredibly positive comments from people that have ran the race about how it’s great route and well-supported by local businesses, including the primary sponsor, McKee Homes.
“We’d love to have anyone come out who’s interested. We take all level of runners, as it’s certainly not a professional race. There is something for everyone.”
Registration for the seventh annual Tour de Airdrie is by website only at www.tourdeairdrie.com