Illuminate the Night: 5km Glow Run supports literacy

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Next month, the sight of runners scurrying around Kin Park in Fort St. John might turn a few heads.

The Fort St. John Literacy Society is hosting its second annual five-kilometre Glow Run, with proceeds benefiting the non-profit organization. The event is also open to people who would prefer to walk the five-kilometre route, rather than run it.

A take on a colour run, the glow run invites participants to don bright colours that contrast the backdrop of the event’s evening start time, according to the Literacy Society’s executive director Jessica Kalman. 

She says the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation organized some glow runs “back in the day,” and the society was able to take over the event after discussions.  

She added that the event would be one of the events highlighting B.C. Literacy Month by the society.

“The idea is that all of the participants will be putting glow sticks or some sort of glowing attire,” said Kalman.  “From a spectator perspective, they’ll kind of see a pathway of illuminated lights going down the path,”

Kalman says there were 75 active runners in last year’s run, and she anticipates a larger turnout this year.

Prizes will be awarded to the winner to add some “friendly competition” regarding the top time.

Awards will also be up for each of the best-dressed individual and best-dressed team.  

Kalman adds that the final course map will be released on the society’s Facebook page next week.

Registration for runners is $40 and can be accessed through the races’ Eventbrite page.  The run is scheduled for September 20th at 7:30 p.m.

More information regarding the Fort St. John Literacy Society and the run can be found on the group’s website and Facebook page.