The Rodeo Mile is set for its 17th year, with the race set to take place prior to the rodeo parade on Sept. 1.
The quarter mile race for children aged nine and under kicks off at 9:45 a.m., and it runs from Ideal Carpets to the UFO landing pad. The mile race brings at Bumper to Bumper, with racers crossing the finish line at the landing pad.
Doug Zarowny is in his second year organizing the race, hosted by North Eastern Alberta Track (NEAT), and says the race is a tricky length. It's too short for a water station, but too long for some who may need a breather.
"It's a tough distance," Zarowny said. "A mile is 1.6 kilometres, and you usually want to stop and take a break halfway through, but it's one of those races where you just have to push through."
Zarowny says the Alberta Athletics sanctioned race offers a blend of both fun and competitive runners.
"We have lots of 10 to 18 year olds, then we usually have about a dozen competitive people. We'll get runners from other (track) clubs, and the city. We want participation, but we also showcase some really good athletes."
Zarowny said there's usually at least one runner each year who runs the mile in under five minutes. The race has several categories: masters, open, junior, youth, midget, bantams, and peewee.
"Participation is welcome and encouraged by all ages and ability. You don’t need to be a high end athlete. Be as competitive as you want to be. There are even a few zany types who run in costume," Zarowny added.
He added the race had 92 participants last year, and organizers are looking to hit triple digits for the 2018 race.
The entry fee for the mile race is $25, and the entry fee for the ¼ mile race is $15. Registration can be done online at www.racepro.ca, and also at the Canalta Hotel on Aug. 31 between 5 and 8pm. Late entries are $30/$20 and are done on race day at the start lines between 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m.
