Run for the Diamond to help with new hospital build
Justyne Edgell, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On June 23, runners will be taking their marks for the 2024 Run for the Diamond in support of the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary.
Seventeen years ago, a group of women from the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary began this grass roots event as a family-friendly run or walk to raise money for the Uxbridge Hospital.
Participants in a previous Run for the Diamond. Cosmos file photo
The Run for the Diamond is a timed event with a shirt, finisher medal and a bite to eat included for all registrants. And the name of the event doesn't disappoint. A diamond pendant has been donated by Rutledge Jewellers - all participants 16 and older will be automatically entered in the draw to win it.
“Last year we had approximately 325 runners signed up, and it was an exceptional year, raising approximately $34,000,” says Auxiliary volunteer and Run for the Diamond coordinator, Michelle Baker.
With the build of a new Uxbridge Hospital on the horizon, the Auxiliary says that all funds raised by this year’s run will be donated to the rebuild on behalf of the Auxiliary.
The 5km route will be a full road run, with the 10km route starting on the road then dipping into the Countryside Preserve for a chance to experience some of Uxbridge’s renowned trail system.
“We are following the same steps as the last two years,” says Baker.
“The Lions Club will have its food booth open (in Elgin Park), the Uxbridge Fire Department will be on site with Sparky and Betsy, the old fire truck. Dan Pollard of 105.5 Hits FM will be our MC at the start and finish line. There will be random draws, and awards for top finishers. And of course the draw for the diamond!.”
Those interested in registering to run can sign up at www.runuxbridge.com, and Baker says they are always welcoming additional sponsors and volunteers to lend a hand.
“Donations can be made online, and anyone interested in volunteering can email me at kukla1@hotmail.com. Without the local businesses and community support we wouldn’t be able to pull this event off!”
Until the end of May Boston Pizza Uxbridge has a promotion where five per cent of proceeds will be donated to Run for the Diamond.