By Leslie Ann Bent
Our Super-STARR Thetis Lake Relay Teams (6 in all!)
This year was a special year for our annual Thetis Lake relay. The rain gods took the day off and with the warm temperature, it sure didn’t feel like a typical Thetis Lake relay. The annual event, organized by the Prairie Inn Harriers, attracts well over 100 teams each year rain or shine, and is a great fall event for clubs across Vancouver Island. The vibe on site couldn’t be better. Lots of music and comradery are evident along the beach and staging area. Leslie Ann and Andy brought the tent, while Sarah brought her portable heater. We had a comfortable STARR team spot to gather.
The relay is a hilly nearly 5km course around Thetis Lake. Teams have up to four members and each team completes four laps around the loop. The route has some gentle moments over the first half of the race, hugging the lake’s shoreline and providing nice forested terrain on wide trail. As runners’ legs get somewhat comfortable, finding a good rhythm, the short, steep hills appear and the race gets more challenging over the last section. Pacing is important at least for the older folks like me. We didn’t call our team “Huffin, Puffin, Gaspin,’ Wheezin’ for nothing.
This year STARR had six teams competing. It was a great venue for catching up with club members and cheer everyone on. Andy and I were unable to stay for the awards ceremony but we know STARR took home some hardware. The race results haven’t been reported as of the race recap. Congrats to all of our team members who came out and a special “whoot whoot” to the teams who placed.
STARR Teams
Huffin', Puffin', Gaspin', Wheezin': Leslie Ann, Andy, Joldine, Barb
Hustling Mamas (and a Dad): Brianna, Steve, Alex, Karla
Defibrillators: Jackie, Danny, Steve Kent, Mark Ziegler
The Young and Breathless: Sarah, Emily (2 laps each!!)
Resting Pace Face: Maggie, Vanessa, Jill, Kari
Three Thorns and a Rose: Pauline, David White, Claude (2 laps for Claude!)
