Peri's Olympic FUNdraiser Run a Great Success! Story and Pictures
By:  Sheila Kealey   (2009/09/27)

Great running weather greeted runners, skiers, and walkers who were out to support Perianne Jones in her Olympic quest.  The event was organized Lynn Carss of Kanata, a phys-ed teacher at Almonte and District High School, along with science teachers Emily and Jenny Sheffield. The races, which attracted over 200 runners, included a 10km and 5km that twisted and turned through scenic Almonte, and a 1km kids run.

A highlight of the event was the special ceremony after the race, where Peri joined her supporters on a big screen from her training base in Canmore. Members of the crowd asked her questions, showed their support, and encouraged her in the final leg of her Olympic journey. It was touching to see how the town of Almonte, members of Nakkertok and other local ski clubs, the race organizers, and many others are so proud of Perianne. Also clear was how inspiring she was to so many young kids.

The event was generously supported by many sponsors, who donated over 100 door prizes! Here are some pictures . . .

5k and 10k runners line up for start


Runners are off!


Lead pack


Happy runners


Cross Country Canada president Jim McCarthy (in red)


Lots of kids in the 5k . . .







Kids 1km race was held on the track and field





A crowded room of supporters for post-race ceremony


Peri joins in from Canmore



Be sure to check Jo-Anne Holden's Musician on Skis site for many great photos.

RACE RESULTS