In 1995 a group of running enthusiasts on Bowen Island, headed up by Dean Gooch, envisioned a foot race that reflects the island’s unique character. They gave it a name to which all islanders and mainlanders could relate:

Run for the Ferry

Whether you are coming or going, many times you find yourself in the above situation. Now in its 16th year, the Bowen Island Run for the Ferry has demonstrated its long standing appeal to the public by being a fundraiser for many organizations, directed by the following people:

Dean Gooch - 1995 to 1997, Mary Letson - 1998 to 2000, Wendy Wanvig - 2001 & 02, Sonia Usmiani - 2003 & 04, Elli Mackay (Bowen Children’s Center) - 2005, Fiona Beatty (Bowen Children’s Center) - 2006, Richard Best (Bowen Community Housing) - 2007 to 2009, Richard Best & Sonia Usmiani (Bowen Community Housing) - 2010.

The Bowen Community Housing Association aspires to develop Run for the Ferry into a highly popular “destination running event” focused on giving to the community, which will benefit Bowen tourism, the island economy, and a greater interconnectedness of a diverse community.

Our theme is:

Cultivating a Healthier Community

The Bowen Community Housing Association was looking for an annual awareness and fundraiser when Run for the Ferry was offered up by Bowen Children’s Center. With the community’s support, we are continuing to develop Run for the Ferry into an even more socially beneficial annual event, taking its place among other successful endeavors such as: the People Plants & Places tour, hosted by the Museum and Archives and Memorial Garden societies; the annual book sale hosted by the Library; and the Dock Dance hosted by the Volunteer Firefighters. All of these events add greatly to the quality of our diverse community.

Proceeds from the Run for the Ferry support the Bowen Community Housing Association’s purpose of creating affordable housing on Bowen Island. A portion of the proceeds also supports the Bowen Island Rock Runners to promote life long fitness.

Past years’ proceeds from Run for the Ferry were assigned to a public education program to help demonstrate the need for affordable housing, to dispel misconceptions of social housing, and to show how affordable housing maintains our social diversity, which is our community strength.

Your participation, whether as a sponsor, donor, volunteer or running participant, helps to cultivate a healthier community. Think about what you can contribute to this year’s event to make it a success.

For more information or to brainstorm ideas, contact Richard Best at info@runfortheferry.ca.

Together we can make a difference!