Sports

The Steveston Icebreaker and New Balance Kidsrun had a record 850 participants in total this year.

Photo by Brian Cliff Photography

The 2023 Steveston Icebreaker had a record turnout, with almost 700 runners taking part.

Photo by Jeannine Avelino Photography

Race director Jared Hulme’s son Jaxton took part in his first Kidsrun with his mom Andrea.

Photo by Brian Cliff Photography

Record turnout for 2023 Icebreaker and Kidsrun

By Hannah Scott

Published 10:53 PST, Tue January 31, 2023

Last Updated: 12:24 PST, Mon February 27, 2023

—

This year’s Steveston Icebreaker and New Balance Kidsrun saw a record turnout, with 850 participants between the two races.

“It was awesome to see that many participants running the streets and paths of Richmond, and I bet there were upwards of 1,500 people in Steveston on that Sunday when you account for the friends and family cheering everyone on,” says race director Jared Hulme.

With luck on their side—light rain began after the event ended—Hulme says the day was perfect.

“The morning was spectacular, with a gorgeous sunrise and picturesque views. Watching almost 700 runners race off the start line was super rad and I could feel the energy from the sidelines,” says Hulme. “We enjoyed all the children running and smiling, and it was very special to watch my son take part in his first ever race at two and a half.”

The post-race health and wellness expo returned to the Steveston Community Centre gym, along with the awards presentation.

“During this, without a doubt, the most exciting moment was (when) two of the three team awards went to local elementary schools, Dixon and Errington elementary. When calling them to the stage, the gym erupted in cheers—and flashes from all the cameras. Both teams won a pizza party from our amazing sponsor, Pizza Factory,” says Hulme.

In total, almost $6,000 was raised for KidSport Richmond, and funds raised for the Kajaks Track and Field Club are also expected to reach a record high.

“This event has such an impact on our club, and we are truly grateful for all the support,” says Hulme. “Each year, more and more local businesses reach out to be involved and this speaks volumes to Richmond's strong community spirit.”

The organizing team will debrief in the coming weeks, followed by a well-deserved break. The rise of the COVID-19 Omicron variant delayed the 2022 Icebreaker to April, meaning the team put together two events in under eight months.

“I am very proud of this team; their dedication and passion to serve the community is incredible, (and) it is a fun group to be around. We will probably aim to get things rolling in late summer and we hope to somehow build on the success of this year's races,” says Hulme.

Kajaks manager Karen Fisher-Hagel says the race committee works all year to make the event happen.

“We are so grateful to them and all the volunteers that make this event so unique and successful. A special thank you to our amazing partners who make this event happen each year—the event is a success because of you,” she says.

Garrett Collier, Kajaks head coach, adds: “Kajaks now looks to this year's track and field season, hosting five home competitions (with) athletes looking to compete at regional, provincial, national, and international meets. First up, (the) March 11 ‘Try it Track Day’ will be a great opportunity for athletes aged nine to 13 to experience a track and field practice.”

For more information on the Icebreaker and Kidsrun, visit icebreaker8k.ca/, and for more information on the Kajaks Track and Field Club, visit kajaks.ca/