For the sixth year, participants will run, walk or cycle from the shore of Okanagan Lake to the top of Giant鈥檚 Head Mountain in Summerland as they participate in the Giant鈥檚 Head Grind on Saturday May 18.
Ellen Walker-Matthews, chair of the race, said around 350 racers and 50 volunteers will participate in this year鈥檚 race.
The race follows a 5.6-kilometre course to the top of the mountain, with an elevation gain of 500 metres.
It is a fundraising event, sponsored by the Summerland Rotary Club. Proceeds will go towards colon cancer detection, diagnostics and research and also to the upkeep and improvement of the trail system in Giant鈥檚 Head Mountain Park.
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This year, the improvements to the park are noticeable as crews have been working on improvements to the park trails.
Some of the trails have been decommissioned and others are being changed because of erosion and damage to the hillside.
The improvement work this year will be worth an estimated $725,000 and is expected to be completed by July.
Walker-Matthews said the majority of the work on the trail for the grind will be completed in time for the race.
鈥淭hey鈥檙e working diligently to have the course ready for the race,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 looking good and we鈥檙e excited.鈥�
She added that the improvements to the trail are a legacy for the community and for those who come to visit.
The course will continue to follow its original route, beginning at Peach Orchard Park on the path along Okanagan Lake.
Last year, because of extensive flooding, the course had been altered to follow the road, since the path was under water.
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The lakeside path has been damaged as a result of flooding, but Walker-Matthews said it will be marked for the race.
Because the race is a fundraiser for colon cancer, two members of Never Too Young will be present. The organization works to educate people about the risks of colon cancer among young people.
The event will be held on May 19, with the bike race beginning at 9 a.m. and the hike beginning at noon.
Information and registration are available online at
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