Press Release
Vancouver, BC – October 12, 2026 – The youngest runners stole the show at the 2026 Granville Island Turkey Trot, bringing big energy, impressive speed, and plenty of smiles to Thanksgiving Monday on Granville Island.
With 160 young participants taking on the Kids Run, the next generation of runners showed that a little friendly competition can make for some big achievements. From enthusiastic finish-line celebrations to record-breaking performances, the Kids Run was a highlight of this year’s Thanksgiving tradition.
Four Years, Four Course Records for Jocelyne Chéné
Leading the girls’ field once again was Jocelyne Chéné, who crossed the finish line in an impressive 3:37, breaking the Kids Run course record for the fourth consecutive year.
As she celebrated her final Kids Run before aging out of the U13 category, Chéné capped off an incredible four-year run of record-breaking performances. When asked about her favourite part of the race, she didn’t hesitate: the finish line!
“I’m going to treat myself to the arcade at the Kids Market on Granville Island!” she said, looking forward to celebrating her achievement with a little fun after the race.
Joining Chéné on the girls’ podium were Everly Holm, who finished second in 3:53, and Avila Bernardino, who placed third in 4:10.
Girls’ Kids Run Top Three
- Jocelyne Chéné – 3:37
- Everly Holm – 3:53
- Avila Bernardino – 4:10
Five Boys Break Course Records
The boys brought their own record-breaking excitement to the course, with five boys breaking the Kids Run course record in an outstanding display of speed and determination.
Bento Sedlacek Prata led the field in 3:42, followed closely by Lev Finkel and Terry Rudyuk, who both crossed the finish line in 3:43.
Boys’ Kids Run Top Five
- Bento Sedlacek Prata – 3:42
- Lev Finkel – 3:43
- Terry Rudyuk – 3:43
- Noah Lam – 3:44
- Noah Larocque – 3:44
With five boys surpassing the previous course record, this year’s race was a remarkable showcase of the talent and potential among the event’s youngest participants.
Building Confidence, One Finish Line at a Time
The Granville Island Turkey Trot Kids Run is about more than finishing times and course records. It’s an opportunity for young runners to challenge themselves, build confidence, celebrate movement, and experience the excitement of race day alongside family and friends.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Granville Island and the False Creek Seawall, the event brings together young athletes of all abilities for a fun and memorable Thanksgiving tradition. Whether chasing a personal best, racing alongside friends, or crossing a finish line for the first time, every young participant is part of the celebration.
This year’s record-breaking performances made the day even more memorable, but the smiles, determination, and enthusiasm of all 160 young runners were what made the Kids Run special.
Congratulations to Jocelyne Chéné on four consecutive years of course-record performances, to the five boys who set new course records, and to every young runner who took part in the 2026 Granville Island Turkey Trot.
Here’s to the next generation of runners and the big things they’ll achieve, one finish line at a time!
