Regional municipalities and runners are preparing for the inaugural Athabaska Ultra 100, which will be the longest ultra race in the province.
Registration is open for the July 28 race which will take runners from Fort Saskatchewan to Athabasca along the Athabasca Landing Trail. Runners will also move through 10 transition zones which will feature Indigenous and community storytelling, according to the race website.
“We just want to educate people about the history we have in our area,” race director Brenda Reynolds said in an interview. “It’s beautiful in our area and we have history, we’re connected to our history.”
Municipalities along the route are partnering with the race and providing attractions at the transition zones, Reynolds said. These municipalities include the Town of Athabasca, Athabasca County, Westlock County, Thorhild County, Sturgeon County, the Town of Gibbons and Fort Saskatchewan, she added.
“They’ve been co-operative, and that of course really makes a big difference,” she said.
The event begins with an expo and opening ceremony in Fort Saskatchewan July 27, followed by the race starting the next day. Registration is open for both individuals and groups at www.athabaskaultra100.ca until June 30 or when all 500 slots are filled.
