SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — Organizers of the first Evermoore Brewing Company 5 Miler event were in for a surprise early Sunday morning.
While they initially expected 50 participants, more than 200 people arrived to run or walk along Summerside’s boardwalk while raising funds for the Canadian Mental Health Association to fund programs on P.E.I.
“It’s fantastic,” said Myrtle Jenkins-Smith, the race director. “We’re overwhelmed by the turnout because it far exceeded what we expected.”
The five-mile event started and finished at the Evermoore Brewing Company in downtown Summerside, with all finishers awarded a medal.
Among the runners was Guinness World Record holder Michael Bergeron. He took the record for juggling three balls while running a half-marathon in Toronto last year.
“My wife Jennie and I compete for fun,” said the Halifax athlete, who came second in the race after Luc Gallant from Wellington.
Bergeron said that he plans to move to Stanley Bridge in nine-weeks with his wife Jennie – just a few steps behind Michael in the run.
Scott Clark, a board member for the P.E.I. Marathon – which presented the event, said it’s a great way to promote the downtown.
“People are out being active and exploring what we have to offer in downtown Summerside,” he said. “And the brewery here is a sponsor. We’re providing refreshments and the space for the participants.”
The first 70 participants registered received a commemorative glass from Evermoore.
