THUNDER BAY -- For the first time in the Fire Fighters 10 Mile Road Race history, a local organization will receive the race's proceeds.
The idea originated with the Fresh Air Ten Mile Club. This year, the club was looking to get donations to raise money for the Underground Gym, a gathering place for youth offering free mentoring and equipment for those who can’t access recreational facilities.
Road race director Meghan Shanks said the club went above and beyond. They have been running with the Underground Gym youth over the past six weeks in preparation for the May 23 race.
“We wanted to support these guys and what they were doing,” Shanks said.
“We decided on our registration, you can make a donation to the Underground Gym and all that money will be donated towards them at the end of the race.”
Shanks explained over the years organizers have tossed around the idea of picking a local charity to receive donations but until this year the plan hadn’t come into play.
The race has raised approximately $500 so far and organizers are hoping to reach $1,000 in donations by the end of registration.
“It’s nice to show the community that not only do they support us but we also support them. I think it’s been a really positive experience so far,” she said.
Shanks said at this point 450 runners have signed up but organizers are hoping to double that number before registration closes May 14 at 5 p.m.