THUNDER BAY – SPORTS – For four decades, Thunder Bay fire fighters have participated in the legendary Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race in the community. Today race representatives announced that this year’s event celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Thunder Bay Professional Fire Fighters Association’s participation in the event. Fire fighters have run more than 10,000 miles in the race. The association has also been the race’s title sponsor since 2004.
“It’s been a wonderful 40 years being able to be a part of Thunder Bay’s most prestigious and oldest race,” Thunder Bay Professional Fire Fighters Association’s Darren Smallwood said. “Every year we look forward to entering our team, it is a great opportunity to challenge yourself and the limits of your physical and mental barriers” continued Smallwood.
Race representatives also announced a new addition to the 2016 race. Young runners from the Underground Gym have been working hard over the past six weeks training with the Fresh Air Ten Mile Training Group, preparing three youth relay teams. The Underground Gym is a unique gathering place for community youth in transition, and offers free mentoring and equipment in a safe environment for youth who couldn’t otherwise access recreational facilities and activities. To celebrate the children’s accomplishments, all registration donations will support the Underground Gym.
“With more than a century of tradition in Thunder Bay it’s great that the Ten Mile Road Race is able to give back to youth in the community and encourage them to get active,” race director Meghan Shanks said. “’Promoting active, healthy lifestyles at the head of the lakes’ was the intent of the original race in 1910 and that continues today.”
The last day to register for the 83rd Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race presented by Halfway Motors Nissan is May 14 at 5 p.m. The race begins Monday, May 23 at 9 a.m. Since it’s inception, the Ten Mile Road Race has been a community celebration for runners at all level with a premier sporting event as its core.
