Burning calories by eating all the milk and cookies, a dozen Santas in Powassan spread holiday cheer at the region’s annual Santa Claus Run moment.
“I tried to stay active in the winter and Powassan is an active city,” said Lynne Cyr, promoter of the race.
“I heard about a virtual career where we can all combine and be Santa Claus. (Eric Taschner/CTV News Northern Ontario) This virtual race is known as HoHoHoliday 5K Run at Make-A-Wish Canada Base.
Across Canada, from December 9 to 31, approximately 10,000 more people dressed as Santa Claus ran or walked five kilometers while raising funds to fulfill life-changing wishes for children with serious illnesses.
“This is the year we’ve done it. All the money, every penny will go to Make-A-Wish. Everyone will feel good,” said Kathie Hogan, event coordinator for 250 Clark, as they laughed.
“It’s wonderful to run. Especially at this time of year when we eat too many gingerbread cookies. In his first career, there’s Chartrand’s circle of relatives from the North Bay who sought to give back to bring magic to young people facing a life of uncertainty.
“We thought it looked exciting and amazing to have a bunch of Santa Claus running down the street, so we wanted to sign up,” said Glenn Chartrand, who already wore his Santa beard.
Last year, the race grossed nearly $80,000 across Canada. This year’s goal is to raise more than $90,000.
“It heats up my center and we have joined the Powassan Food Bank. So we did a toy drive and also donated to the food drive,” Cyr said.
Organizers said we were craziest when it came to donations, which can still be accepted online, as the Santas abandoned their reindeer for a couple of runners. One of the many Santas who walk the streets of Powassan for Santa’s annual race. (Eric Taschner/Northern Ontario CTV News)