One of Ottawa’s biggest spring traditions is officially underway.
Thousands of runners filled the streets on Saturday to kick off Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend with the Kids Marathon, 2K, 5K and 10K races.
For many, it was about chasing a personal best. For others, it was about something much more meaningful.
At 100 years old, Roy Allen is taking part in his first Ottawa Race Weekend and looking to make history in the process.
“Only 100-year-old to have done the 5K in Canada,” Allen said.
The centenarian participated in the five-kilometre race and by completing it, became the oldest person to do so in Canadian history.
But, before heading to the start line, Allen told CTV News that the race is about more than crossing the finish line.
He’s also raising money for four organizations that supported him and his wife over the years, including the Council of Aging Ottawa, the Dementia Society, Perley Health and the Gloucester 50 Plus Centre.
“It’s nice to be able to do it and to be raising money for these other people,” Allen said.
Allen says he’s raised over $12,000 ahead of the race.
While Allen warmed up for his historic run, the day began with the Kids Marathon, hosted by CTV News Ottawa’s Natalie van Rooy.
Nearly 1,900 children took part in the event, sprinting through the course as families and supporters cheered them on from the sidelines.
Run Ottawa says community fundraising continues to be a major part of Race Weekend, with dozens of charities involved this year.
“We have over 87 charities participating this year, and we have teams in all of them,” said Lisa Georges with Run Ottawa. “Whether people are running for a charity, an organization or in memory of somebody.”
As for Allen, he says the support from spectators and his family helped carry him through the course.
“They are really my encouragement there. Get me going. I can’t possibly quit,” he said.
Allen completed the five-kilometre race with a time of 1:47:19.
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend continues Sunday with the half and full marathon.
