5 km walk/run, health fair this Saturday

MAGNETAWAN – The Magnetawan Area Business Association (MABA) is gearing up for a weekend of activity with a 5 KM walk/run, their first-ever health fair and a variety of attractions for all ages.

The festival-like day is intended to promote area businesses, raise money for community initiatives and generate community spirit and morale.

The fourth annual walk/run will get underway at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8 when Muskoka-Parry Sound MP Tony Clement and MPP Norm Miller fire the starter’s pistol.

Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the fitness event which will see participants start at the community centre, trek along Hwy. 510 and return.

Event organizer Ilona Charlton is optimistic that the much-needed road repairs along the notoriously bumpy Hwy. 510 will not be underway at the time of the race, so participants will have a clear thoroughfare.

The health fair will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature local groups and individuals in the health and wellness field. A Red Cross Disaster Van, the Whitestone Nursing Station, Almaguin Mental Health, Sacred Breath Yoga and the Heart and Stroke Foundation are just some of the organizations that will be set up to provide information and demonstrations.

Healthy food will be served up by area businesses including the Schmeler Hotel and the Cornball Store.

The annual silent auction, featuring items donated by area businesses, will run throughout the day. Proceeds from the auction and run will go toward the MABA scholarship fund, the Magnetawan Home and School Association and the local volunteer fire department.

Each year, the MABA awards a $500 scholarship to a local high school graduate going onto pursue post-secondary studies in business or tourism.

Last year’s recipient was Almaguin Highlands Secondary School student Marie Hemmings of Magnetawan.

In the early afternoon, there will be a Trans Canada Trail plaque dedication to the latest donors to the trail which runs through Magnetawan.

Individuals interested in the 5 KM walk/run can pre-register at Summer’s Attic and the Quiet Bay Motel in Magnetawan. Registration takes place from 8 to 10 a.m. on race day.

For more information about the fourth annual MABA run/walk and health fair, contact Ilona at 387-1452 or Walter Reich at 387-0115.