Runners and dog lovers alike returned to Stanley Park in Vancouver for the sixth annual RunGo Dash for Dogs on Sunday, Feb. 23.
The event raised $24,338 to support Ladner-based BC & Alberta Guide Dogs.
More than 400 participants and 150 dogs set off from the Brockton Pavilion on guided 10K, 5K and 2K routes. They enjoyed a fun and non-competitive run/walk before returning to a finish line celebration comprised of pancakes, prizes and an opportunity to try a blindfold walk with guide dogs in training.
“My grandsons were in heaven! They loved the experience and it was their first ever official race/run,” said participant Eleanore Elton. “The guide dog experience of being led through with a trainer for both boys was also fantastic. Getting a ‘medal’ to hang around their neck for finishing was icing on the cake.”
Craig Slagel, the Founder of RunGo has been supporting this event for six consecutive years. In that time, Dash for Dogs has raised more than $90,000 for the organization.
“Thank you to everyone who supported and participated this year,” said Slagel. “We are so happy our event has continued to grow and that we are able to give back to BC & Alberta Guide Dogs.”
BC & Alberta Guide Dogs breeds, raises and professionally trains guide dogs for people who are blind or visually-impaired, Autism Service Dogs for children ages three to 10 with autism, and PTSD Service Dogs for veterans, RCMP and first responders living with an Operational Stress Injury. These certified guide and service dogs are provided at no cost to recipients, along with training and aftercare support. To fund these programs, the organization relies on donations as well as proceeds from events such as RunGo Dash for Dogs.
