A great start to a new year
Beans and Bangers Resolution Fun Run set for Jan. 1 in Blomidon
One might assume a mountain run slated for 11 a.m. on New Year’s Day would be a hard sell.
Beans and Bangers Resolution Fun Run and Walk organizer Sean Dixon begs to differ.
“It’s just a great way to start the year. It’s local, it’s fun, it’s completely non-competitive and it’s active living,” said Dixon.
The annual event will return Jan. 1 at 11 a.m., starting at 2047 Pereau Road in Blomidon. Early arrivals are invited to join Dixon for an ice-cold polar bear dip in the Minas Basin if they’re feeling up to the challenge.
“If the tide is out think of how far you have to run to get wet… and then you have to run back,” said Dixon, laughing as he reflects on previous polar bear dips.
“It’s tough but we only do it once a year, and it’s fun.”
Participants with a preference for sticking to dry ground can choose to complete a 5K, 7K or 10K route – all at their own pace.
“A lot of people walk… and just go for a great walk on New Year’s Day and they share a bit of good cheer with other people,” said Dixon.
“They get the chance to run up a mountain and drink champagne from the look-off point at the top.”
The event typically attracts about 75 participants and raises $1,500 to $1,700.
“We have beans and bangers (sausages) at the end of the run and it’s all local food that’s Spirits were high at the 2017 Beans and Bangers Resolution Fun in Blomidon.
been provided,” said Dixon, who noted members of the Port Williams Pacers and Mountain View Runners clubs have generously support the event since its inception.
“One hundred per cent of the proceeds go towards things needed for schools.”
The money is used to purchase classroom supplies that will benefit students. Money collected from previous runs has been used to buy several stationary spark bikes designed to help students struggling to concentrate self regulate.
“To make life better for students, it’s always about that,” said Dixon, who organizes the Resolution Fun Run with his wife, local teacher Ria Dixon.
“Wherever (the money) goes we know that it has a small impact.”
Participants of all ages will be presented with an edible medal (icing-coated cookie), and adults will be treated to a glass of champagne donated by Domaine de Grand Pré.
“Every year Just Us! Coffee donates all the coffee and hot chocolate we can get our hands on. We are incredibly well supported by these businesses and Value Foods in Canning.”
Adults can register online for $25 per person, or pay $30 the day of the event. Children under the age of 16 can participate for free. The meal alone costs $10 per plate without event participation.
For more information contact Sean Dixon at sean@xcountry.tv or 902-293-6044.