Chilliwack Racers Dominate 18th Around the Lake Trail Race

It was a strong showing for hometown runners at this weekend’s (October 16) 18th Around the Lake Give ‘R Take Trail Race. Despite being organized and held during a pandemic (observing health protocols) and with a lot of rain in the previous 48 hours, some 140 participants ran through puddles, streams, mud and over branches, with only a few minor scrapes and cramps incurred as they circumnavigated Cultus Lake.

First across the line was Vincent Pagot of Chilliwack, who’s time of 2 hrs, 33 mins, 10 sec was just 5 secs short of setting a new solo course record. Thirteen minutes behind him was Meindert Hinlopen also of Chilliwack. Top women’s finisher was Chilliwack’s Angela Froese in 3:10:48 followed three minutes later by Tara Paterson of Hope. Top male and female solo finishers received unique hand-crafted walking sticks carved by Rick Den Braber.

Results in the relay competition:

• Top female team: ‘Sloth Running Team’, Anne Neitzke and Esther Kamphuis of Chilliwack in 3:15:40.
• Top mixed team: ‘Katrina & Ike’, Dirk Handke and Melanie Bos of Kelowna in 3:05:09.
• Top male team: ‘Skinny and the Beast’, Jeremy Isaak of Agassiz and Kevin Barata of Abbotsford, in 2:40:33.

Oldest runner was 76-year old Alex Marks, who is also the only person to have run in all 18 Around the Lake Give ‘r Take races. Youngest was 16 year-old Hayley Dibski.

The race, which could not be held in 2020, is organized by a committee of volunteers, under the auspices of the Around the Lake Trail Race Society. Funds generated through registrations and sponsors has allowed race organizers to hand out thousands of dollars over 17 years to local, non-profit organizations that support outdoor recreation, as well as $1,000 scholarships for students in Chilliwack School District.

Next year’s 19th Around the Lake Give ‘R Take trail race is scheduled for Saturday, October 15.