Yaletown seeing yellow as BIA boosts Sun Run by displaying T-shirts
If you see a flurry of yellow in Yaletown this week, don't be alarmed. It's only dozens of 2021 Vancouver Sun Run Virtual Race T-shirts that the Yaletown Business Improvement Association has hung to promote the race.
The run's entertainment sponsor, YBIA is flying the fitness flags at Helmcken Plaza on Mainland, between Earls and Yaletown Brewpub. The pop-up installation will feature 100 or so recycled Sun Run shirts.
“We wanted to find a way to repurpose old Sun Run T-shirts,” said Victor Hwangbo, marketing coordinating for the YBIA.
Hwangbo and his co-workers have also curated a playlist, Yaletown Loves Runners, on Spotify. The playlist includes today's hitmakers such as The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, and Lizzo, as well as some dance-pop artists that might be new to Sun Runners. A few classic rockers also make the cut, including AC/DC and Queen. And what running playlist would be complete without Survivor's Eye of the Tiger, the theme song for 1982's Rocky III?
“During the pandemic, it's been quite difficult for a lot of people when it came to participating in events,” Hwangbo said. “We started this playlist right before the pandemic began. We put together the best music to help people train, focus and run.”
Participants in this year's run can also look forward to seeing live acts along the route. The 17act lineup includes classic rock cover band Bad Motor Scooter and a choir called Top Line Vocal Collective. Other acts include the B.C. Regiment Band Society, the Creole Jazz Band, and Deep Blue Fever in the Bunkhouse. Most of the bands have been performing along the Sun Run route for years, if not decades, including X-Kalibre and the Neurotics.
“I have been sharing my music with Sun Runners for 14 years now,” said Jen Hershman, a Vancouver singer-songwriter. She will lead a three-piece band that includes percussionist Raphael Geronimo and violin player Annie Brown.
“In recent years, I've been at the beginning of the route. This year, I am excited to be in a new location, 3rd and Alberta.”
The singer/songwriter says she will motivate runners with “atmospheric vibes, lots of heart, and my latest song, Give Me.”
Participating runners also receive exclusive offers from local businesses in Yaletown.
Participating businesses include BE Chiropractic Wellness, Fit to Be Healthy, and Is. Salon, as well as Scivé Italian Bakery Caffé, Sushi Maro and Westoak. The offers are available until May 31.
Visit yaletowninfo.com/ vancouversunrun for up-to-date information.