By City of Salmon Arm Mayor Alan Harrison
Everyone has a passion.
I like to run.
I find running to be a very efficient way to exercise while providing me think-time.
I try to run all over our community – it is a very good way to find out what is happening.
I run through all the parks in our city. Trail running is easier on the legs, and taking in the nature around you is exhilarating. Trail users are friendly – lots of smiles and hellos on each run.
Running on neighbourhood roads is also a good way to see what is evolving in each area. I learn a lot.
When you are training for a marathon, the training distance increases over time. The past two weekends, my wife has dropped me off at Silver Creek School and I have ran into town. I grew up in the Mt. Ida area, so it is fascinating to see the angles of our iconic Mt. Ida change.
My Dad was a milk tester, so as a kid, sometimes I would go with him to the farms. Passing the Puetz, Wright, Syme, Jackson, Reid, Schut and McLeod farms brings back memories of those days. Some of these farms are still in the family, others are thriving under new ownership.
I meet a lot of dogs in the Salmon River Valley. Thank you to all their owners; every dog was safe and secure behind a fence. I run early, so apologies if owners were woken up by all the barking!
I run facing the traffic. Drivers are incredibly courteous. Almost without exception, each driver slows down and pulls way over to the other lane. I often wave thanks, and they wave back.
When we visit other communities, I run there too. A great way to get to know the town, picking up different ways to do things.
I hope to run the Victoria Marathon in October. As runners know, getting to the start line healthy is one of the challenges.
Regardless, training allows me to see our community, one step at a time!
