Pride Run & Walk is an annual event hosted by the Vancouver Frontrunners, a local LGBTQ2+ running and walking club. Pride Run & Walk was born out of the notion of wanting to give back to our community with the main goal of raising funds that go directly to our community beneficiaries which are Out in Schools and the LOUD Foundation’s Pride Youth Scholarships. Our second goal is to have fun! This is an event put on by a local community club and a team of volunteers that benefits the community.
The Pride Run and Walk is for everyone of every ability. For most it’s the enjoyment of taking part surrounded by like-minded and supportive people. Some run competitively and look to get a great time; many people run or walk to meet their own goal which could simply be about taking part. Some get together with friends and run or walk as a team. Some dress-up; some don’t. Basically, it’s your event to enjoy as you wish. So don’t worry about finishing times (unless you want to!) – just come along and enjoy the day.
Course description:
Starting and ending at Second Beach Park, we have a what you would call and ‘out and back’ course. Both 5km and 10km runners and walkers will head off East from Second Beach Park, past Lost Lagoon and under the Georgia Street overpass. From here you will approach the junction where there’s a crossing on the bike path, but don’t worry, we’ll have volunteers monitoring traffic to ensure you’re not disrupted. Then you will head north and follow the sea wall path without any detours. Our infamous disco water station will be positioned close to the entrance of Deadman’s Island, with a turnaround point for the 5km runners and walkers shortly thereafter. This marks 2.5km into the course.
10km runners will continue on the sea wall, navigating their way around the Brockton Point Lighthouse, furthering on past the water park at the base of Lumberman’s Arch before finding your turnaround point at the bridge where Stanley Park drive crosses over the extension of Hanson Trail.
Both 5km and 10km runners turnaround at the designated spots and continue back along the same path and cross the finish line which also doubles up as the start line.
For 5km participants, this means your water station visit is at the half way mark, while 10km runners will pass this at the 2.4 and 7.6 km marks. Should 10km runners require a bathroom break, there are public washrooms available at the children’s water park, as well as a public drinking fountain available should you be thirsty.