For the Paton family, Sunday 8 March is a special date on their family calendar. They look forward to running and remembering together – with the new 2.5km Life Education Stride making it easier for the youngest Patons to take part.

In 2020, Dana, Ben and children Caleb, Jack, Brianna and Bella (ages 10, nine, five and three) will for the first time be able to share in the running and remembering, by taking on the new 2.5km distance, with a combination of running, walking and pausing for breaks.

According to Sport Canterbury Chief Executive Julyan Falloon: “We are thrilled to offer this new distance in 2020, in addition to the classic 10km course, to make it easier for people of all ages to take part, and families to walk and run together.”

Dana, who comes from a background of distance running, earned a scholarship to Long Island’s Stony Brook University in New York. Paton cannot overstate the value exercise and physical activity has had, not only for herself, but also her family.

She believes in the value of parenting by example, and shares her passion for the outdoors with her children at every opportunity.

“I love being active as a family, it’s great for both physical and emotional health,” Paton comments, “The outdoors is therapy for families.”

Paton says the event is an opportunity “too good to pass up,” and looks forward to the fun and connection her family will enjoy, in an environment that is about participation and community.

 The Christchurch natives identify with the meaning of the remembrance event and the idea that spending time outdoors, being active with friends and family, can be a positive way to reflect and show optimism for the city’s future.

“It’s important that we are aware and reflect on the city’s history given all that we have been through these past years.”

The Press Run to Remember Sunday 8 March 2020

10km and 2.5km distances

Exclusive entry rates for families, groups, teams and corporate sites

Enter on-line – www.runtoremember.co.nz

Article added: Monday 03 February 2020