For the second year in a row the Spavor family of Nakusp will have representation in the Vancouver Sun Run on April 23.
Twin sisters Avery and Hailey Spavor are taking part in this year’s run, which promotes health, fitness, and community spirit.
The Sun Run is a 10-kilometre road running event held in Vancouver each year on the third, sometimes fourth Sunday in April since 1985. It is one of the largest road races in North America.
“It’s one of the most popular runs in Canada,” said Avery. “There are a lot of good foundations associated with it, I think that’s why it’s really popular.”
This is Avery’s second time doing the run, while it’s Hailey’s first.
The sisters are raising money for the BC Cancer foundation in honour of their aunt, Nancy Banks, who recently lost her battle with the disease. Nancy worked at Kootenay Regional Hospital for many years.
“She was really passionate about what she did and she was really passionate about staying fit.” said Hailey.
“Her family was everything to her,” added Avery.
For the twins, training for the run began in February. Because weather in Vancouver hasn’t been the best the two have been using gym memberships, training at the YMCA. They get at least four runs in during the week. On weekends, if the weather is nice they’ll do an outdoor run.
The Spavors have a page on the Sun Run’s website, with a link to that on their Facebook pages.
Avery and Hailey are both looking forward to the run.
“It’s freaking awesome,” concluded Avery. “The last year was super sunny and you get there and there are so many people around you. I just remember we had to go over a bridge, and I remember being able to see across the bridge to this swarm of blue, because there’s a blue shirt the Sun Run people give out to everyone. It was so cool, so I’m really stoked to run it again.”
Anyone wishing to donate to the Spavor’s run can do so at:
http://donate.bccancerfoundation.com/site/TR/Events/ResponsiveTR?team_id=21356&pg=team&fr_id=3060