The first annual Run in the Rockies is being held in Hinton on August 20, and the early bird deadline is drawing near. 

The run will be one-kilometre for kids, five km, 10 km or half marathon on the trail systems behind the Hinton bike park. 

Kyla Olson, race director, said the event came about because there is a large population of runners in the region that aren’t as interested in the local triathlon or the many bike races. The Run in the Rockies will attract those that just want to go for a run. 

“We just thought that Hinton has a beautiful trail system, and there’s a lot of runners in the area,” Olson said. “Everybody can run or walk.”

The event will be a fundraiser for the Hinton spray park, and Olson said they will change up the fundraising destinations every year. 

The run will be a little on the tough side – Olson said to not expect to make any personal bests this time. 

“You won’t be running your best half-marathon time, that’s for sure,” she said. The scenic run will start at the Hinton Bike Park and use the trails behind it. 

Olson said they are still looking for sponsors from all over the region. The race has drawn in athletes from Hinton, Jasper, Valemount, as far away as Saskatchewan and more so far. Registration has just opened and already 50 runners are ready to hit the trail. Olson expects that number to climb as the event draws nearer, especially among last-minute local runners. 

“We’re looking to attract about 400 participants,” Olson said. 

The kids race is for all ages, and there are plenty of prizes to be won for all participants. Sponsors are chipping in some great items, such as a $20 Shop Hinton card for all participants from the Hinton Chamber of Commerce. 

Plans are not yet set in stone for a reception, but Olson confirms there will be some sort of reception or barbecue afterwards, as well as an awards ceremony. 

Registration can be done online at www.runningroom.com, and more information on the Run in the Rockies can be found at www.hintonrunintherockies.com. Registration forms can be picked up and dropped off at the Hinton Chamber of Commerce and the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre. The early bird deadline is June 30.