2012 Divas
The 10th annual Diva On The Run 8k event was held last weekend at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. We were particularly interested in covering this event because we were curious as to the participation and turn-out to an all-women's race. We were amazed and inspired to say the least. This ongoing event is one of three events in a series of "women only" races in the Vancouver area. The concept is simple...get women out running, walking, or crawling if necessary. In addition, the focus of the event is to raise money and awareness for The Arthritis Society. This race had participants of every caliber, fitness level, and age. Here is a brief run-down on the race course, organization, and recommendations.
THE COURSE
The race course design and location are beautiful. The backdrop for the event is Jericho Beach Park which is located near UBC and is situation along the water. The course covers mostly packed crushed gravel with a bit of pavement sprinkled in. Overall, the course is flat, fast, and friendly. The course layout is in a figure 8 format so it allows for a decent viewing area for guests and cheerleaders. You will get to see your favourite racer run/walk past you a couple of times. There was a watering station strategically placed to allow racers to pass it twice during the run.
ORGANIZATION
This is the tenth year that this event has been running and the race organizers clearly know what they are doing. I was impressed with the amount of sponsorship present at the race. The start/finish area was well marked and all participants were equipt with a timing chip. To start off the day, a volunteer led the participants in a fun warm-up to get the blood flowing and the spirit of the event off on the right foot. The event had two cyclists: one to lead and one to follow the pack. There were hundreds of disk markers on the course to help split the path. This was not a closed course so participants had to be aware of the daily walkers/runners along the path but it didn't seem to hinder anyone. As participants crossed the finish line they were presented with the traditional colourful boa to display proudly. Gift bags were handed out and sponsors and vendors were on hand to make sure that they were full.
WHO IS THIS RACE GOOD FOR?
If you are lacking a Y chromosome then you qualify. This a great event for any girl, woman, mother, or grandmother out there. The event had great character and atmosphere. It is a non-intimidating event and you can enjoy finishing an amazing little course in a beautiful locale. If you are a Type "A" personality and want to put your PR to the test then go right ahead. There were a few racers who could really fly at this event and we are sure they will oblige you...Great event!
THE COURSE
The race course design and location are beautiful. The backdrop for the event is Jericho Beach Park which is located near UBC and is situation along the water. The course covers mostly packed crushed gravel with a bit of pavement sprinkled in. Overall, the course is flat, fast, and friendly. The course layout is in a figure 8 format so it allows for a decent viewing area for guests and cheerleaders. You will get to see your favourite racer run/walk past you a couple of times. There was a watering station strategically placed to allow racers to pass it twice during the run.
ORGANIZATION
This is the tenth year that this event has been running and the race organizers clearly know what they are doing. I was impressed with the amount of sponsorship present at the race. The start/finish area was well marked and all participants were equipt with a timing chip. To start off the day, a volunteer led the participants in a fun warm-up to get the blood flowing and the spirit of the event off on the right foot. The event had two cyclists: one to lead and one to follow the pack. There were hundreds of disk markers on the course to help split the path. This was not a closed course so participants had to be aware of the daily walkers/runners along the path but it didn't seem to hinder anyone. As participants crossed the finish line they were presented with the traditional colourful boa to display proudly. Gift bags were handed out and sponsors and vendors were on hand to make sure that they were full.
WHO IS THIS RACE GOOD FOR?
If you are lacking a Y chromosome then you qualify. This a great event for any girl, woman, mother, or grandmother out there. The event had great character and atmosphere. It is a non-intimidating event and you can enjoy finishing an amazing little course in a beautiful locale. If you are a Type "A" personality and want to put your PR to the test then go right ahead. There were a few racers who could really fly at this event and we are sure they will oblige you...Great event!
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