Records for both the fastest run and the number of participants were shattered during the 21st annual Marathon Shuffle on Sunday, April 27.
A total of 217 participants took part in the event, hosted by Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society (PRPAWS). For the full shuffle, 112 people ran and hiked a 29-kilometre section of the Sunshine Coast Trail, from Malaspina Road to Shinglemill Pub and Bistro. Another 105 participants chose to tackle the half-shuffle, which started at Wilde Road.
Graham Cocksedge, a Powell River resident, demolished previous records when he crossed the finish line at a jaw-dropping 2:22:46, which was 23 minutes and 29 seconds faster than 2013’s previous record time of 2:45:36. Cam Klassen repeated 2013’s second-place finish when he came in at 2:36:20 and Chris Michalak achieved third at 2:52:23.
Vancouver-runner Carlie Smith topped the women’s category in the full shuffle with her time of 3:17:28. She was closely followed by Vera Horsman at 3:23:23 and Inge Tholen at 3:28:07.
In the men’s half-shuffle category, Chris Bratseth came in first at 1:20:52. Malcolm McDonald placed second at 1:22:16 and Keegan Chard-Hill third at 1:25:34. In the women’s half-shuffle, Angela Gross scored a first with 1:37:00, followed by Heather Anderson at 1:51:12 and Diana Findlay at 1:52:48.
Hugh Prichard and his nine-year-old son, Kiran Hollmann-Prichard, made a special impression on the crowd gathered at the finish line when they completed the half-shuffle together at 1:50:01.
A number of participants set new personal bests and many had high praise for the trail, which was in the best-groomed condition yet. Even the weather cooperated, with rain holding off until late afternoon.
Times for all participants of both the full and half shuffle will be available on PRPAWS’ website, by clicking on the Marathon Shuffle link, then on results link. Photos will also be available on the site.
Numerous volunteers and donors helped make this year’s shuffle the record-smashing success that it was. Support staff were stationed along the way at seven locations and at the finish line, supplying water, juice, fruit and cookies, plus plenty of cheers and encouragement.
