Registration is Open for the Vancouver Island Race Series 2022!

The Vancouver Island Race Series is back in-person for the 2022 season! An annual tradition celebrating over forty years, this multi-race event is a great way to beat winter blues and stay fit. The series will kick off the New Year with the usual Harriers Pioneer 8k on January 9 in North

Saanich followed by five more races spaced throughout the winter season: Cobble Hill 10K, Hatley Castle 8K at Royal Roads,

Comox Valley RV Half, Westcoast Sooke, and Synergy Health Management Ltd. Bazan Bay 5k. See www.islandseries.org for the full event details and registration.

It may seem that you have to be an elite runner, or at least somewhat fast, to do this series, but actually it draws athletes of all abilities who want to be challenged and find that running a race every couple of weeks keeps them motivated. The distances and locations vary, and you can do them all or a few. Runners accumulate points tallied by performance, and the average of the best four results is the final standings. Prizes are given for overall and top ten age group winners. Many participants are part of a running club so that adds another level

of competition too as individual points go towards your club’s overall standing.

Each race is well organized by amazing volunteers and a host running club which decides what adaptations to make around Covid restrictions. General manager of the series, Louise Hodgsen-Jones says that “those who continue to have indoor venues for race bib pickup, food, awards, etc. will have to ensure that participants and volunteers are fully vaccinated and masked. Other races may be outdoors using tents. To be sure, it will be a safe and comfortable environment for all participants.”

Is this challenge for you? Competitive athlete and coach, Susan Gordon, offers some tips on how to approach this race series, whether it’s for fun or competition. For the podium seeker:

“You either view the series as part of your yearly training program or as a race season, and find time to take a break before any major races in the spring. The series is nicely designed with the varying distances allowing for a ramp up in volume, then an

increase in speed so you can really test your fitness in that final 5k race. You may need to adjust your usual program to account for the toll racing takes on your body. Add an extra day of rest when needed and be aware of over-training signs.”

For a recreational runner: “Volume (distance) training is more valuable than speed work if you are using the race series as a fun way to increase fitness. Approach speed work with caution, preferably with advice from a coach. Those

new to running and/or races, will find this

series may be one of the best ways to learn what will work for you as a competitive runner. It allows you to set goals, maintain a schedule, and adjust for your own personal needs. You will ultimately gain in confidence and performance, and discover your favourite distance and most comfortable speed.”

A comradery can develop as participants compete and get to know others running at the same pace. The Island Race Series is a fun opportunity to mix friendship with friendly competition.