Clayoquot Action had a blast on the WildSide 10 km walk on Flores Island. Tara Atleo, Ahousaht First Nations member and WildSide Trail manager, describes the event. You don’t need to wait until next year’s Trail Run to enjoy the WildSide. Head up to Ahousat this summer! wildsidetrail.com
On June 22rd, 2013 the 2nd Annual Run the WildSide trail run was hosted in the Ahousaht village of Maaqtusiis. The events this year included a 10km run/walk, and a newly added 22km half marathon, which took runners across the entire length of the WildSide Trail. Sixty seven runners took part in both events, with a higher number participating from Ahousaht and Hesquiaht thanks to some community training programs leading up to the events.
The idea to host a run on the WildSide Trail came in 2010 when the office was first opened as a community development project aimed at creating a cultural eco-tourism industry in Ahousaht. The idea didn’t come to life, however, until 2011, when well-known Ahousaht athlete and runner Travis Thomas joined the WildSide staff and was asked to spearhead the event coordination for 2012. The First Annual Trail Run brought 65 participants, 54 of which were from outside of the community. The event was a success, and the feedback from participants gave us confidence to continue planning it as an annual event.
The main goal of this event is to share the trail and territories with visitors in a new way, as well as promote health, wellness, and use of the trail in the community. The success of the events could not have been achieved without the help of the volunteers and sponsors, who helped us to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. We are grateful for all of the support, and look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Tara Atleo
WildSide Trail Manager
@wildsidetrail
