Great Trek presented by BlueShore Financial 2023: Race Recap
The Great Trek presented by BlueShore Financial, took the UBC Campus by storm this past weekend. Over 3,600 runners converged on UBC Campus, eager to conquer run goals and leave their mark on this iconic event. This annual event commemorates a defining moment in the university’s journey in 1922 where students marched through the streets of Vancouver to pressure the government to resume construction of the Point Grey Campus.
Race director, Eric Chene, set the tone for the day saying, “We couldn’t have asked for a better day for the Great Trek, the sunny weather set the perfect backdrop for our event. It was a great show of spirit and community. To top it off, runners raised an impressive $18,000 for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and Rare Disease Foundation.”
BlueShore Financial added, “As presenting sponsor of the Great Trek, watching the community come together to share in the excitement of running here on the West Coast is a joy to be a part of and reminds us of the uniquely unifying power of physical well-being and togetherness.”
The race kicked off bright and early, on a perfect, crisp fall day. Runners lined up at the Start Line on UBC campus, ready to tackle the course. Participants wound their way through the campus’s lush greenery -a breathtaking backdrop of the Musqueam Territory.
One of the highlights of this year’s race was the exceptional participation and support from the UBC student community. The event also included a special UBC student relay.
At the Finish Line, runners were awarded with medals bearing an eagle designed by Darryl Blyth while the back designed in-house by RUNVAN features iconic landmarks along the race route.
Darryl Blyth, a Salish artist hailing from the Musqueam Nation, selected animal icons that symbolize the local region for his medal designs. The inspiration for these designs draws from traditional Salish elements, where he employed a traditional art style to craft the medals. These medals are worn proudly by Great Trek finishers.
9,000 Timbits were also delivered for the Great Trek event for participants and volunteers. Sushi and chili post-race snacks were provided courtesy of RUNVAN.
As we look back on the Great Trek presented by BlueShore Financial, we see a celebration of community, athleticism, and the wonderful spirit of our community. Congratulations to all our winners and participants for making this year’s event truly unforgettable.
The Vancouver International Marathon Society RUNVAN® is a non-profit that organizes the First Half presented by BlueShore Financial, BMO Vancouver Marathon, Granville Island Turkey Trot and Great Trek presented by BlueShore Financial. runvan.org/races
