Entrants enjoyed ideal weather and trail conditions during the 32nd Marathon Shuffle on Sunday, April 27. While the shuffle isn’t a race, top finishers are recognized.
Jordan Maynard of Gibsons was the first male to cross the line, clocking in at 2:46. Squamish resident Julie Van der Hoop was the top female finisher with a time of 3:12.
“The trail is so beautiful,” stated Maynard. “I didn’t realize the finish down Scout Mountain would be so awesome.”
This year’s event set a record for participation, according to organizers, with 215 runners and hikers starting at Malaspina Road and making the 27-kilometre journey along the iconic Sunshine Coast Trail to the finish line at the Shinglemill Pub in Powell River's Townsite neighbourhood.
“You really couldn’t ask for a better trail,” stated Van der Hoop. “It’s not muddy, it’s not dusty, and it’s absolutely stunning.”
Local husband-and-wife team Rachel and Dane Sherstad emerged as the top male/female finishers from the qathet region; both placed second in their categories. Dane finished in 2:52 and Rachel in 3:13.
Dane thanked the volunteers for their hard work, while Rachel praised the quality of the course.
"it's full-on," stated Rachel. "It's full value."
The day began with a traditional welcome from Tla’amin elder aasheelth (Andy George), as well as words from Marathon Shuffle co-creators Eagle Walz and Scott Glaspey. At the start of a long hill, Byron Feder set up his drums and serenaded participants with vigorous jungle beats.
“Although the trail gods certainly smiled down on us today, it’s the work of the volunteers that ensures this event runs smoothly,” stated event director Ean Jackson. “From the ‘Dirt Monkeys’ who ‘shuffle-ize’ the course to the volunteers at registration, the start line, finish line and feed stations, this event simply couldn’t happen without them.”
For compete results for this year’s Marathon Shuffle, go to sunshinecoasttrail.com/events/marathon-shuffle/results.
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