Third Annual Run to Orillia and Back

If its June it must be time for the annual night run to Orillia and back. This year would mark the third time we had attempted what would be about 76 kms of running and a bit of walking, ok maybe a lot of walking at times.
This year's event would see more RoadRunners taking part than ever. There were a number of different groups leaving Barrie at different times. Brenda and Lee-Ann left at about 5:30 and would go with out support to Orillia only, and by all accounts had a great time. Joan, Angela and Chris "Battman" would leave at 6:15 and were also only going to Orillia. Steen would leave some time after 7 and be aided by Kelly Ann on her bike. The last group are where the crazies were. Those planning on going all the way were Keith, Bill, Erin and Alan. Also along for the run was Brendan, whose wife Marie would support us to Orillia. This group left at 7:45 pm.
The weather int he past few years had been very favourable, nice temps and next to no moisture, this year wouldn't be quite as good, but still bad. The worst issue was the humidity, it was very humid and we were soon dripping sweat. The run took its toll on Alan who dropped before getting to Orillia after making a valiant effort with little training.
THe last group arrived in Orillia just before midnight to raucous welcome of supporters. A quick turn around, change of shirts, shoes etc and Bill, Keith and Erin accompanied by Bryan headed back to Orillia. Erin had decided that she would nobly go so far as her foot was rather painful, but after reaching the 48k mark she decided to get at least 50k. It would 52k before we saw the support from Joan and Jim and before we saw them asked about the history of the run. We told her that I (Keith) was the only person who had run both ways the past two years. So if she finished she would be the only woman finisher. She immediately perked up, and with that it was on to the finish. We had a strategy to walk for a while when we hit each concession and then run to the next concession. this worked extremely well and we finished strong. THe rain started slowly at about 1 am but turned into heavy rain just as we approached Barrie at about 4:30. We were soaked but feeling good. after about 8 hours and 55 minutes we all completed the run at the Southshore centre and after a few high fives and hugs we headed in our separate directions looking for a shower and bed. A great event again which turn into something more official one day.


Early on in the run.

At the 11th line of Oro.


Ready to set out back to Barrie, half way done.


Finished!!!