By Leslie Ann Bent

Sunday, April 14 marked the last race of the Vancouver Island race series. It was a beautiful sunny day for a race and 619 participants were up for the challenge. The 5k race is a flat and fast out and back course – considered to be Canada’s fastest 5k. It’s a scenic route dotted by tulips in full bloom on one side and the strait on the other, hugging the Sidney shoreline for most of the way. Ten STARR participants were part of the action. Whether you are a serious competitor or a back of the pack recreational runner, coming off injury or tackling a personal challenge - the stimulation was there and no one felt alone. The top 18 finishers completed the course in less than 16 minutes. The final two runners crossed the course at 1:03.

STARR’s top finisher was Barbara with an incredible time of 21:02, earning her a 2 nd place finish in her age group. Justin was our first male to cross the finish line with a time of 29:09. I was pleased to see him out on the course and he gave me a shout and an encouraging wave when I needed it most. Thanks! STARR members took home one medal and four ribbons.

This event also announced the series winners. Runners earn points for their age-group performance for each race they complete. To qualify, runners must complete five races with one being longer than 10k. Congratulations to Barbara, Maggie, Kari, Jill, Joldine and Bruce for a successful hardware-earning series. We’re really proud of you all.