The 15th annual Provincial Forest Fall Frolic will happen on Saturday, October 11 at the New Harmony Demonstration Woodlot near Souris.
The Fall Frolic cross-country run is a joint partnership between the PEI Roadrunners Club and the Department of the Agriculture and Forestry. It began in 1999 when the Roadrunners Club began working with the Public Lands program to find a suitable place for a new and challenging cross-country run. The New Harmony Demonstration Woodlot was suggested as a great starting point because it contained forested trails, and the surrounding area had many scenic dirt roads well suited to cross-country running. This event quickly gained a spot on the Island’s annual running calendar and today it attracts runners from across the Maritimes.
The Fall Frolic features a challenging 12.3 km cross-country run that features forested trails and scenic backcountry roads set amid the rolling hills north of Souris. The day also features a 4.6 km family-oriented event for casual runners and walkers. To emphasize the family-friendly nature of this course, it is not unusual for parents to bring their young ones in baby strollers.
Over the past fifteen years all of the money raised through entry fees has been donated to MacIntyre House, a non-profit group home located in Souris. MacIntyre House is a seven-bed facility that is now housed in the former RCMP building.
This year the run will be held on October 11, with registration beginning at 9 a.m.; both runs will begin at 10 a.m.. Entry fees are $9 for Roadrunner members and $10 for non-members. A barbeque will be held after the run. Door prizes will be drawn for thanks to the support of the many local sponsors in the area.
“Our provincial forests offer many recreational possibilities year round but October is a particularly beautiful time of year to visit these properties because of the spectacular fall colours,” said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry George Webster. “I encourage all Islanders to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of our Island woodlots this weekend. For those looking for something a bit more challenging, the Fall Frolic is a great family-friendly event.”