Joe McGuire Memorial race attracts many

by Connor Barry | Aug 1, 2023

Local teenagers arrived to support their friends running in the race. From left, Bruce Shark, Micah Kent, Lily Thompson, Ward Libby, Bella Able, Josiah Libby, and Sophie Chase. (Connor Barry photo)

Race honours local runner’s memory

One hundred fifty-three runners sit cautiously, and with a shout of “ready, set, go!” the Tim Hortons Joe McGuire Memorial 5K and 10K has begun!

The race honours the late Joe McGuire, who had a long and prolific running career throughout Atlantic Canada and beyond. He died last April. Until this year, the race was called the Joe McGuire Road Race.

McGuire ran in many long-distance events, including the Boston Marathon, where he was the First Master’s Finisher, and ran the fastest marathon in New Brunswick history at 2:27:51.

McGuire Memorial organizer Jill Dunnett says that many experienced runners partake in the race because they have a better chance of getting a personal best due to the very flat course.

The race took place on July 29 and began at 8:30 a.m., with a short encouraging speech given to the runners by Dunnett before the race started.

The race offered a five- and 10-kilometre run and a 5-kilometre walk, boasting the fastest times in the province.

The race started at the Woodstock town hall, heading north along Main Street and across the Grafton Bridge, spanning the beautiful Saint John River to Grafton. Participants then turn south along Route 105.

The Woodstock Police Department provided security for the event, with multiple squad cars being allocated to keep runners safe.

The race concluded with an awards ceremony for the top runners and another short speech by Dunnett congratulating the contestants.

Top 10 in 5K run.

Teanne Ewings- Houlton

Julia Reid-Howell- Fredericton

Emily Trites- Fredericton

Sabastion Godin- Moncton

Malachi Witmer- Linneus

Todd Power- Atholville

Hannah Trites- Fredericton

Chris Rines- Fredericton

Joanne Reynolds- Prince William