The Department of Agriculture and Forestry is joining with the Prince Edward Island Roadrunner's Club in hosting the first annual Provincial Forest Fall Frolic Cross Country Run. It will be held at the New Harmony Demonstration Woodlot near Souris on October 7, beginning at 9 a.m. Participants can walk or run the 4.5 or 13.2 kilometre trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the fall forest.
"The Provincial Forest Fall Frolic promises to be a very exciting cross country run in one of Prince Edward Island's most scenic woodlots," said Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy. "Staff of the Provincial Forests have partnered with many community-based groups over the years, and have developed six demonstration woodlots with self-guided educational trails which offer many potential uses."
Kim Bailey, co-director of the Roadrunner's Club Fall Frolic, said because of the conveniences of highway/town races, there are at present no cross country races in the province, even though they are often preferred over road races.
"The inception of this race has generated a great deal of enthusiasm and interest among road runners," said Ms. Bailey. "The opportunity to provide a run of this calibre provides an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of autumn leaves and the thrill of cross country running."
The department and the Roadrunner's Club are inviting runners and families to share the experience by running or walking the self-guided trails and celebrating the achievements of the participants.
There are more than 38 kilometres of trails in the Provincial Forests across the province, including those at the New Harmony Demonstration Woodlot.
For more information contact, Kim Bailey at ACCESS PEI (838-0600) or Dan MacAskill, Provincial Forests (368-6730).