REGINA — The Run for Regina was back, continuing its efforts to raise money for a good cause, but wildfire smoke has moved the run onto the list of numerous events being cancelled due to poor air quality.
The event is part of a national initiative undertaken by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA), which hosts charity runs across the country. Each local chapter for the association handpicks the charity of its choice, and Regina chose The Circle Project.
“They aid Indigenous communities, helping with securing food for lunches while also supporting women and children,” said Arslan Ahmed, youth lead with AMYA Regina, in an interview prior to the event being cancelled.
“This was very appealing to our youth because, from our perspective, we want the change to be seen locally in the community at our age group level,” he added.
Most of the group voted in favour of fundraising for The Circle Project. Since the run's inception in 2021, roughly $7,700 has been contributed to the organization.
This year, the run aimed to raise $15,000, but Ahmed said it would be challenging.
“We did not see the economic and financial crisis coming, and three organizations that committed to this year’s run contributions had to back out.”
He said this year's run was to see see roughly 50 runners compete in the 5K and 3K run. Meanwhile, there were to be 30 to 40 people participating in the walk. Ahmed said there could be a total of 100 participants.
The Run for Regina was supposed to get underway Sunday morning at Wascana Centre – TC Douglas Meadow, with opening ceremonies at 9 a.m
