After six years, Colin Kloot is putting down his clipboard and putting his runners back on, stepping away from the Dinosaur Half Marathon committee.
Kloot and a cadre of running enthusiasts had a vision of bringing a road race to the valley, and they did just that. They statted with a half marathon, a 10K and a 5K family run. In its fifth anniversary, it added a full marathon. It has cemented itself on the Alberta race schedule as a destination run.
At the Annual wrap-up party for organizers and volunteers, Kloot stepped down off the committee. Race chair and fellow organizer Jens Madsen presented Kloot with a parting gift.
“I really do appreciate this,” said Kloot. “I didn’t expect this kind of accolade. It has been a great six years.”
In those six years, the race has contributed $85,000 to the Badlands Community Facility. But more importantly, it has made a healthy impact on Drumheller.
“We have also, I believe, made a mark in regard to health and wellness in the valley which is the main objective. It is not just the money, but it was to create an awareness of running, health, wellness and fitness.
He said this is evident in the number of people he sees walking, jogging and running.
He is comfortable that he has left the race in good hands, but they could always use more volunteers.
“It is amazing what this small committee creates on race day,” he said. “Next year I hope to be running in the races and hereon into the sunset.”
Another prestigious award was presented a the wrap up night last Wednesday at O’Shea’s, the top water station on the course, an award guarded by Chinook Credit Union. There was a new kid in the winner’s circle as Dinosaur RV Park won.
