By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 26, 2025

This weekend, tens of thousands of runners, walkers, and cheerleaders will line the streets of Vancouver for a tradition that has become as iconic as the city itself—the Vancouver Sun Run. Now in its 41st year, the 10K race is not just Canada’s largest running event, but also one of the largest in the world.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant (like me this year!), the Sun Run is more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, wellness, and resilience.

A Run That Started with a Vision

The Vancouver Sun Run was first held in 1985, launched by The Vancouver Sun newspaper and a small group of local visionaries who wanted to promote health, fitness, and community connection through running. That inaugural year, just over 3,700 participants took part—an impressive turnout for what was then a brand-new event.

Their goal? To create a fun, inclusive event where people of all backgrounds could run side by side, regardless of age or ability.

From Modest Beginnings to Massive Milestones

Over the next four decades, the Sun Run’s popularity skyrocketed. At its peak in 2011, the race drew more than 60,000 participants, securing its reputation as one of the top 10 largest road races in the world. Today, it’s a fixture on Vancouver’s event calendar—drawing elite athletes, corporate teams, families, and newcomers alike.

A major reason for its success is its accessible 10K format. It’s challenging enough for competitive runners but friendly enough for anyone with a pair of sneakers and a goal to get moving.

A Route Like No Other

The Sun Run's course is part of the magic. It winds through some of Vancouver’s most stunning scenery—from bustling Georgia Street through the West End, over the iconic Burrard Street Bridge, and down along Beach Avenue, with a finish near BC Place. For many, it’s as much about the breathtaking views as it is about the finish line.

Community and Charity at Its Core

The Sun Run has always been about more than personal bests. Each year, the event supports local charities and health-related organizations, raising millions of dollars over its 40+ years. It also inspires countless people to start training and reconnect with fitness and well-being, often for the first time in years.

More Than a Race—It’s a Movement

The 41st Vancouver Sun Run is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community laces up together. It’s a place where people of all ages, shapes, and stories show up—not just to run, but to cheer, to support, to move, and to belong.

So whether you're chasing a personal record, running for a loved one, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, know that you're part of something much bigger.

See you at the start line!

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Vancouver, BC #41st Annual Vancouver Sun Run #Vancouver Sun Newspaper #60,000 Participants

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