Kamloops’ largest wellness event invites participants of all abilities to walk, run and ‘boogie’ together this spring
Thousands of participants dressed in red will once again take to the streets of Kamloops this spring as Boogie the Bridge returns, bringing together runners, walkers and families for a high-energy community celebration.
The event offers several distances so people of all ages and abilities can participate. Options include a one kilometre Mini Boogie for children ages nine and under, 5 and 10 kilometre walk or run routes, and a 21.1-kilometre half marathon. According to organizers, the goal is to make the event accessible rather than competitive.
For Jo Berry, co-ordinator for Boogie the Bridge and executive director of the Boogie the Bridge Society, the focus has always been on creating a welcoming environment rather than a competitive race.
“It’s very inclusive. The energy is very kind. Everyone’s equally treated. There are big hugs at the finish line and there are 11 or 12 bands on the route,” Berry said. “It’s a very high-energy, inclusive, super fun event for absolutely anybody.”
The event began in the late 1990s as a grassroots community health initiative. Since then, it has grown into a major local gathering, attracting close to 3,000 participants each year and raising more than $1.2 million for local charities.
Berry says the mission behind the event has remained consistent since the beginning.
“It’s always been about mental health,” she said. “Movement is change, not only physically, but mentally, spiritually and emotionally.”
Participants traditionally wear red during the event, representing love, energy and change, which organizers say reflects the spirit of the community gathering.
In addition to promoting wellness, Boogie the Bridge serves as a fundraiser. Each year, organizers select a charity partner that could benefit from increased awareness or support.
This year’s charity of choice is the Kamloops Therapeutic Riding Association, which provides therapeutic horseback riding programs for people in the community.
“We always pick charities that perhaps need their profile to be heightened, more awareness, or they are struggling financially,” Berry said.
Planning the event is a months-long process. A core team of about 20 organizers begins preparing each September, co-ordinating sponsors, volunteers and logistics leading up to the spring event.
Participants will once again gather near the Sandman Centre, where the start and finish area creates a lively atmosphere with live music and entertainment.
“It’s more than a run or a walk. It’s a party on the run,” Berry said.
New additions made last year added to that festival feeling, including food trucks alongside the music and gathering space, which will be included in this year’s edition as well.
For those unsure about signing up, Berry encourages people to simply come experience the event.
“If you’re really nervous, just come down and watch it this year,” she said. “Come cheer, come feel the energy. Just do it, you’ll never regret it.”
Registration for Boogie the bridge can be found here boogiethebridge.com/the-races.