In the heart of St. Thomas, Ontario, a small city steeped in history and charm, an annual event comes to life, bringing together runners, volunteers, and the community for a common purpose. The Steelway Railway City Road Race is not just another race; it’s a journey of unity, kindness, and empowerment.
A Race with a Purpose
At its core, the Steelway Railway City Road Race is about more than just running. It’s about making a positive impact in the community. Organized by Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Thomas-Elgin, this event supports at-risk children and youth, contributing to their brighter futures. It’s a race of heart, where every step taken is a step towards making a difference.
Community Unites
The success of the Steelway Railway City Road Race lies in the community that rallies behind it. Local businesses, like Steelway Building Systems, have stepped forward as presenting sponsors, understanding the importance of supporting the event’s mission. Masco, The Cooperators – Debbie Hamilton & Associates, Ltd., Yarmouth Group, and the YMCA are race sponsors, adding their strength to the cause.
But the support doesn’t stop there. StorageMart, Simply Pure Water, Briwood Farm Market, Ryan’s No Frills, Walker Farms, and Domino’s have also played vital roles, exemplifying the power of community support.
The Backbone: Dedicated Volunteers
Behind the scenes and along the race route, there’s an army of dedicated volunteers, nearly a hundred strong, who make the magic happen. They’re the unsung heroes who handle everything from pre-race preparations to course setup, aid stations, and beyond. Their commitment and enthusiasm ensure that the race day runs smoothly and that runners have an exceptional experience.
The Unity Race: A New Chapter
In recent years, the Steelway Railway City Road Race has expanded its mission. The introduction of the Unity Race, involving local high schools, is a testament to its commitment to fostering inclusivity, kindness, and school spirit. This initiative encourages students to come together to support a message of unity while competing for the Unity Trophy.
Results that Matter
As the race unfolds, smiles grace the faces of runners as they cross the finish line. The unity in the community shines brightly as participants from all walks of life come together to support a shared cause.
In 2023, the race witnessed a record-breaking turnout with more than 700 runners, a testament to the growing support for this remarkable event. Behind the scenes, nearly 100 dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the race day’s success, adding their invaluable contributions to the mix.
This overwhelming participation and volunteer support affirms the Steelway Railway City Road Race’s role as a unifying force in the community, making a tangible difference in the lives of at-risk children and youth.
Looking Ahead
With each passing year, the Steelway Railway City Road Race continues to grow, inspiring more runners, volunteers, and sponsors to join in the journey of making a difference. It’s more than a race; it’s a celebration of unity, kindness, and community spirit.
As we look ahead, the road to the next Steelway Railway City Road Race is paved with hope and determination. The goal remains clear: to create a better future for our community’s children and youth, one step at a time.
Join us on this remarkable journey, and let’s continue running for unity. See you at the next race! 🏃♀️🏃♂️🌟
September 22, 2024
