LITTLE CURRENT—Saturday, July 20 was a perfect day to be outside and taking part in Pride Manitoulin’s Colour Run/Walk/Wheel. Each participant was given a t-shirt, a pair of sunglasses and an opportunity to get wet—essential for getting one’s pride colours to stick.
The 5K participants gathered at the NEMI Public Library, with a sprinkler system set up and music to get the adrenalin pumping. 1k participants met at Low Island, taking advantage of the splash pad to do the trick. Once wet, and on the move, volunteers were on hand to dash colour on the runners and walkers, with fine, colourful powders in various hues.
Though Pride month is in June, the planned run/walk had to be cancelled due to weather at that time. “We did have this scheduled for June, for Pride Month,” said Leslie Tipper, “but it happened to be a day of thunderstorms and for the safety of everybody and just so we didn’t have any food waste, because we do have a barbecue at the end we rescheduled for today.
“We had approximately 60 register and then 20 showed up on top of that,” Ms. Tipper added. This is a free and inclusive event. No fee to enter, no prizes won, but a lot of joy at the end of the course. “Just making the Pride event accessible for all who can attend. By making this a walk, run or wheel we’re making sure that the population can participate,” she said.
The 5K Colour Run for Pride began in 2017, under Pride Manitoulin’s organization. Mnaamodzawin Health Services took over the event in 2023, because they have the resources and the manpower, with a great volunteer base, which includes many Pride Manitoulin members. “We separated it from the other big weekend events, and we were able to bring in a lot more people.” Ms. Tipper said.
A barbecue was set up, waiting for the runners, walkers and wheelers to complete the course and enjoy hamburgers, hotdogs, cold beverages and fruit. The course ended on Water Street in Little Current, amidst the Farmer’s Market, the sellers and the buyers. It was crowded on a beautiful summer Saturday, but the participants were easily spotted in the crowd, wearing their dark shades and their Pride Manitoulin t-shirts with bright Pride colours still clinging to their now dried attire. All the smiles and cheers spelled success.
by Margery Frisch
