Spring Fling Half-Marathon a hit with runners, prompting organizers to add 5k distance to fall event

By Mike Anderson

Last week’s inaugural Georgina Spring Fling Half-Marathon, held on Sunday, May 15, attracted more than 430 participants, who endured the plus 25 degree Celsius heat to run and walk along scenic Lake Drive.

“A lot of people came over the finish line, and the first thing out of their mouth was it’s hot,” said Sandie Orlando, co-race director.

“The summer temperatures pretty much caught up with everybody. It wasn’t so bad starting off in the morning, but as the day went on, the sun was pretty intense, and the wind didn’t come the way it had for the fall race. So it wasn’t cooling them off as well. But overall, it was a gorgeous, gorgeous day.”

Many participants were first-timers, including some who walked the course, attracted by the shorter distances offered, especially the 5k and 10k events.

“So many first-time runners joined us, and their smiles at the finish line told us it wouldn’t be their last,” Orlando said.

“It was a pretty even split between the half marathon distance, the 10K and 5K. So we decided to include the 5k distance in our September race to include runners who aren’t ready for a longer distance race.”

The course started in De La Salle Park and turned back just past North Gwillimbury Park.

The upcoming Georgian Marathon and Half Marathon, slated for September 11, will feature two laps for the full marathon distance, 42.195 km, allowing runners to qualify for the Boston Marathon as the race falls just inside the qualifying window dates.

“The fast, flat and scenic course adds appeal for runners looking for a personal best or qualifier,” said Cindy Lewis-Caballero, co-race director.

“We also strive to make it a fun day for everyone, with our alligator mascot encouraging the runners to stay on pace, cheering stations, and a live broadcast with HITS105.5FM.”

Orlando thanks all the sponsors and local businesses who helped make the Spring Fling Half-Marathon a success, including the Town of Georgina, The Briars, Elpida Café, the Jennifer Jones Team, K Country 93.7FM, HITS105.5FM, and Forrest Jones Entertainment.

“We are grateful for the support from the local community in terms of sponsorship and coming out and cheering,” she said.

“We love working with people in the community, and we want to make it a really fun race for everybody, not just the runners, but also the community itself.”

For more information on the fall marathon, visit enduranceeventproductions.com.