Surge in registration for Vancouver race following Boston bombings
Organizers of the upcoming Vancouver Sun Run in British Columbia, Canada, have reported a surge in last-minute registrations following the Boston Marathon bombings.
The Vancouver Sun, a sponsor of the race, writes that 691 new participants signed up for the race on Monday. That's more than double the number of people who signed up on the same day a year ago.
The Vancouver Sun has pledged to donate $10 from every late entry toward helping the victims of the bombings and their families. Three people died in the explosions and more than 170 people were reported injured. The funds will go to The One Fund Boston, an official charity formed to help the victims and their families. The Sun reports that if the increase in registration continues, the race could raise between $25,000 and $40,000.
Jamie Pitblado, vice president of promotions and community investment for the Vancouver Sun, and head of the Vancouver Sun Run, told the paper that race organizers are continuing to get calls from people eager to register for the hugely popular 10-kilometer run. "It was unbelievable,” Pitblado said. “The trend continues, the swelling of support for those in Boston."
Participants are encouraged to wear blue and yellow, Boston's official colors. Organizers are also planning an official tribute at the beginning of the race.
