Beat Your Best Time and Support Canadian Athletes
19th Annual BMO Grouse Grind Mountain Run returns September 20, 2009
September 5, 2009
North Vancouver, September 4, 2009 – Athletes of all ages and abilities will race to beat their best times at the 19th Annual BMO Grouse Grind Mountain Run on September 20, 2009. The event will also benefit the Adopt an Athlete program, a local initiative committed to raising $50,000 for three athletes sponsored by the resort who are competing for a podium place finish this winter in their respective sports.
Canada’s most famous trail, the Grouse Grind, attracts over a hundred thousand outdoors enthusiasts each summer to climb “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”. The annual race draws several hundred professional and amateur competitors from across the country each year, to beat their best times established on the grueling course throughout the season. The annual run also offers a formidable challenge to athletic newcomers seeking to conquer the mountain for the first time.
BMO Bank of Montreal enters its fifth year as title sponsor of this popular community event. “At BMO, we are hugely supportive of the Grouse Mountain Run since it’s a great way for people of all ages and abilities to stay healthy and fit while enjoying spectacular scenery,” said Joanne Gassman, Vice President, Vancouver Suburban District, BMO Bank of Montreal. “We encourage anyone that is sitting on the fence to join the Run this year,” Joanne added.
In addition to producing amazing feats of resilience, determination, and athleticism, this year’s race will also raise much needed funds for three aspiring Canadian athletes this winter.
“Our Adopt an Athlete program is an ongoing effort to provide future medalists with the support they need to achieve greatness,” says Michael Cameron, General Manager for Grouse Mountain Resorts. “Vital funds are being raised from each event entry and race garment sold. Competitors are also encouraged to raise additional support through pledging available online and in-person at the resort.”
After the race, athletes and supporters can relax in the alpine plaza by the finish line, and enjoy a variety of activities while the awards are presented.
The official course record to date for men is 26:19 held by Michael Simpson set in 2007. The women’s record is 31:04 held by Leanne Johnston, also set at the 2007 event.
Event Schedule - Sunday, September 20, 2009
8:00am to 9:30 am - Day-of registration
10:00am - Race Begins
10:26am – Estimated finish time of 1st racer
12:30pm - Awards ceremony
Course details
Length: 3 kilometres (1.86 miles)
Elevation Gain: 853 metres (2,800 feet)
Base: 274 metres above sea level (900 feet)
Summit: 1,127 metres (3,700 feet)
Total Stairs: 2,830
Average Time: Approximately an hour and a half to complete the hike, with two hours recommended for novice hikers.
Participants: Hikers range in age from children to seniors with an equal male/female split.
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