It has been 32 years since Terry Fox began the now iconic Marathon of Hope to raise money for cancer research.
One year after his journey ended abruptly just outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario, the first Terry Fox Run was held at more than 750 sites across Canada.
Today, the annual run is held not only in countless communities across Canada, but in close to 25 countries around the world, raising millions for cancer research.
This year's run is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 16 and here at home, organizers in both South Delta and North Delta, with help from the Delta Police Department, are gearing up.
"The Delta police are totally committed to Terry Fox and the fight to beat cancer," said Chief Jim Cessford. "It affects all of us."
The department has committed police and reserve officers, as well as CoPS bike patrol volunteers, to help patrol the routes to ensure participant safety.
In North Delta, the Delta Police Pipe Band will perform and the K9 unit will make an appearance.
Gail McEwen, co-chair of the South Delta event, which is organized by the Tsawwassen Rotary Club, said last year's event attracted 350 participants.
McEwen said that while the run is aimed at raising funds, the main focus is participation and making it a fun, family-oriented and educational event. Bring those things together and the money will come, she said.
The South Delta Terry Fox Run includes five-and 10-kilometre routes. Both options begin and end at Rotary Square at the Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall. Both routes are open for walkers, runners and rollers. McEwen said it's pet-friendly as long as animals are on leashes.
Registration starts at 8: 30 a.m. and the walk/run/roll starts at 10 a.m.
There is no registration fee and no minimum donation. Participants are invited to stick around after the run for a barbecue, raffle draw and other festivities.
For more information visit www.terryfoxrun.org.
