VANCOUVER, BC, Jan. 29, 2021  Now in its 37^th year, the annual Vancouver Sun Run will return in a unique way. Due to the ongoing effects of the novel Coronavirus, the 10k Vancouver Sun Run and 2.5k Shaw Mini Sun Run will take place virtually from Sunday, April 18^th through to Friday, April 30^th.

Although COVID-19 has impacted many activities in our daily lives, BC health officials are encouraging people to get outside and be active. Pacific Blue Cross, a longstanding sponsor of the Vancouver Sun Run volunteer program, is evolving its support to the recently refreshed ‘walking category.’ Participants from all over British Columbia and throughout Canada will be encouraged to complete their own versions of the iconic race within their respective communities.

“Walking is a great way to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing – yet our research with Insights West shows that 23% of British Columbians are walking less since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said John Crawford, President and CEO of Pacific Blue Cross. “We’re committed to helping people across the province get more active, and Walk with Pacific Blue Cross is a safe, accessible and inclusive way for all British Columbians to make a healthy goal.”

BC’s Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, agrees that in lieu of large gatherings, getting out there and running or walking in the fresh air is a great way to stay healthy and safe during the Coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s been a challenging year to say the least,” said Tim Hopkins, Race Director. “We are so pleased to see our partners step up and continue to support this terrific event, virtual or otherwise. Walking has always been a part of the event so it’s great to attach such a great partner like Pacific Blue Cross to the category.”

For the first time in it’s 37 year history, every registrant will receive a tech T-shirt and commemorative medal for completing their own version of the 10K run.  This marks the first time the Vancouver Sun Run has provided a medal to participants.

Once again, registrants will be able to raise funds for local charities through our pledging program which began in 2014.  The Vancouver Sun Run’s charitable efforts have raised more than $3 Million to date.  We are proud to announce that for 2021 our charitable partners will be BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, BC SPCA, Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon, the BC Cancer Foundation, and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank and Family Services of Greater Vancouver.

Registration for the Vancouver Sun Run is open now!