Thousands ran for diabetes research at Sudbury Rocks

“Hands down, this is the biggest and best fundraiser for us,” said Chris Montgomery, a representative with the Canadian Diabetes Association and Sudbury Rocks committee member.

“The amount of money we've raised with this race is absolutely phenomenal. To be able to put it towards education, awareness and research towards diabetes, we can't ask for more.”

Last year the race raised $50,000 for diabetes research and support for patients in Sudbury.

“Fitness is such a major factor in preventing and managing diabetes, that it makes for such a good partnership,” Montgomery said about Sudbury Rocks.

He said he hopes this year's race surpassed that total, but the final tally will not be known until mid-June, he said.

Runners of all ages participated in a variety of events, which ranged from a one-kilometre race for children, to a full 42-kilometre marathon.

Some were running their first race, and others, like Angela Batsford, of North Bay, were seasoned runners.

Batsford was the first person to complete the marathon with a time of 3:09.

She said she has lost count of the number of marathons she has run over the years.

Batsford runs year-round, and said it is the training that gives her the most enjoyment, rather than the races.
“I like them after (they're done),” she said after completing her race.

Terry Cavanaugh, a senior manager of branch facilities with the Canadian Diabetes Association, said most of the funds raised from the event stay in Sudbury.

He said the money raised helps keep the association’s local office running, and directly supports Sudburians with the disease.

Cavanaugh participated in his second 5 K run Sunday, and said he was thankful the weather turned out to be nice. Last year there was still snow on the ground, he said.

Organizers said next Year's Sudbury Rocks will be even bigger to celebrate the 10-year anniversary.