Big Pirate Run returns to Richmond park with costumes, community and confidence

Sea2Sky Events’ fifth annual Big Pirate Run returns to Garry Point Park in Richmond on Saturday, Sept. 19. Participants are invited to dress as pirates and raise money for the Richmond Food Bank.

Children can take part in one- to three-kilometre races, while adults can choose five-, 10-, 15- or 21.1-kilometre half-marathon runs. All routes are suitable for strollers, wheelchairs and dogs. There is no official timing, as the event emphasizes participation, movement and fun.

Richmond resident Shannon Sawicki has participated since the event began, alongside her son, now 10. He usually runs the one- to three-kilometre race, but will join her in the 5K for the first time this year. Sawicki said the event offers a fun, non-competitive way to make fitness part of regular and social life, while helping children build confidence, make friends and learn about community.