New leader takes over Race Weekend
The longtime director of Ottawa Race Weekend is passing the torch.
After 17 years on the job, Jim Robinson is set to retire on Feb. 28.
“It has been a privilege to contribute to Ottawa’s running community for so many years,” Robinson said in a news release.
John Halvorsen will replace him, leaving a career in the high-tech sector to begin the transition into his new post. He has filled various volunteer roles in the organization for more than a dozen years, as well as serving as chair of Race Weekend’s board of directors.
“I look forward to the challenge of this new job,” Halvorsen said in a news release.
He also hinted that Robinson will continue on as an adviser in the organization.
“The Ottawa running community owes Jim a debt of thanks for being the driving engine of growth and success behind the Ottawa Race Weekend and developing it into a truly world-class event,” he said. “We anticipate that he will continue to bring us invaluable guidance beyond his retirement date.”
Under Robinson’s leadership the event has grown from 4,000 runners to nearly 43,000.
This year’s Race Weekend is scheduled for May 25-26.