Paint-splattering annual run raises more than $3,200 for cancer support

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — More than 110 runners were covered in colourful paint on the streets of Fort St. John to raise money for a cancer support charity this weekend. 

The Sunrise Rotary Club of Fort St John’s eighth annual Colour Me Rotary Run at Northern Lights College took place on Sunday, June 1st. 

Rain didn’t stop 113 racers taking on either five- or 10-kilometre routes to raise $3,270, this year for the FSJ Cancer Support Circles Society, with entry fees and t-shirt charges collected.

There was also a costume competition, won by a duo wearing taekwondo doboks.

Gina Tizon, a cancer survivor, joined the race for the first time to celebrate her 10th year cancer-free. 

Brenda Baumeister, co-founder of the Cancer Support Circles Society, said: “We could help someone with their groceries, we could help someone to get fuel to get to their treatments or a basket for people to enjoy their time when they’re at home.

“The goal is to support them in any way possible through this process.”

The organization provides a safe environment for those impacted by cancer to share their stories and feelings. They offer peer-based support and a wig program.   

“They help them probably through the toughest times,” said Ross Allard, president of the Sunrise Rotary Club. 

“It’s a great organization. It is also nice to see the money stay local.”

Sponsors of the event – including Safeway, Canadian Brewhouse, CIBC, Energy Safety Canada and more – provided free snacks for participants, music, photos and more.

Group fitness instructor Keri Giesbrecht of the Positive Perservance Group Fitness app led a warmup before the races began. 

Every year the Fort St. John Sunrise Rotary Club looks for organizations it can partner with, through events to involve the community. 

It has hosted the hosted the Colour Me Rotary Run/Walk for different non-profits each year since 2017.

Find out more about the Cancer Support Circles Society on its Facebook page.