The 30th annual Rotary Huron Shore Run in 2018 saw over 800 participants and raised over $70,000.

Citizens of Saugeen Shores,

We have completed the 30th annual Rotary Huron Shore Run with another successful year added to the history of the event. Again it was a wonderful, clear day with the right temperature and no rain. All this started as a small run along the lake years ago and now we have grown to an event that hosted 850 entrants. It has become a community event enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike.

We would like to thank everyone who participated by first entering the event and then soliciting sponsorships to raise money for the event's supported groups. The bulk of the funds are raised for our local hospital foundation. Without our hospital we are not a growing community. How many people can say they have not used the facility? With the money raised we ensure that our hospital remains current and offers quality healthcare close to home.

This event does not run itself. We had over 80 volunteers help in ensuring participants were given a safe and friendly environment. We thank all for your support at all levels of the event. Besides the day's volunteers there needs to be a dedicated working group to organize the event. This group is a strong committee that works together and gets the job done. Thanks for a wonderful job.

In supporting the foundation our major costs are covered by our local sponsors. Without them the event would not be what it is today. I thank them all and ask all citizens to support our local businesses and groups in our community just as they support us.

The partnerships that we have established over the years are very important to our success. We have on board the Town of Saugeen Shores, Bruce Power employees, Grey-Bruce Health Department and other groups. We hope that the local BIAs continue to assist in making this a true community event. Remember their logo, “Run to Southampton”. It was a healthy weekend in Saugeen Shores.

The team participation was a pleasant surprise this year. We had upwards of 26 different teams which we believe really helped to increase our numbers to 150 more people. The kids race this year was exceptional. We had more kids than ever before and what an entertaining time watching our future generation enjoying themselves in a healthy event. We had 11 participants sign up for a Half Marathon walk this year, again more than ever before. It was truly a fun day for everyone.

We would like to conclude by offering my heartfelt thanks to all involved and everyone that participated.

John and June Van Bastelaar,
Rotary Huron Shore Run