The streets of Langford were filled with hundreds of runners and supporters on Saturday, as the annual memorial run in honour of Constable Sarah Beckett took place.
On April 5, 2016, Const. Beckett’s was killed in the line of duty when a drunk driver ran a red light and struck her cruiser.
The 32-year-old mother of two died in hospital shortly after sustaining her injuries. In honour of her memory and legacy, the Mother’s Day weekend 5km run is held each year to raise funds for several local charities.
Proceeds from the event go to The Boys and Girls Club South Vancouver Island, Goldstream Food Bank, and the Const. Sarah Beckett memorial scholarship.
Elyse Patten, the race director, told CHEK News that about 350 runners showed up to participate, with another 170 taking part in the virtual run. “Our first event was in 2019…we had a great turnout, but then COVID hit so we had to put on a virtual event in 2021. We’re kind of just coming back, so this is a real test to what we’re capable of, and I’m hoping next year will have even more people once the word kind of gets out,” Patten said.
“The RCMP and the policing world, we’re a close-knit community, so having something that’s a positive event and a way to honour someone, it means a lot.”
The event included a kids entertainment zone, live music, and a BBQ where local fire department members grilled tasty snacks.
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In 2021, the event was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it still had 700 participants from across Canada and the U.S.
An overview of the route. | https://www.sarahbeckettmemorialrun.com/
Stoked to join in on the celebration of #SarahBeckett and a healthy, safe, vibrant community #WestshoreYYJ ! #LetsGo #InThisTogether pic.twitter.com/Ttd2dEb4tt
— The Village Initiative (@VillageSookeWS) May 13, 2023
CHEK News
