The Ottawa Physio Race is set to take place on Sunday, April 22nd, 2012 in Ottawa, Ontario. This Run Canada Month race offers a 2km, 5km and 10km walk or run.

Tell us about the Ottawa Physio Race. How many years has it been around? How did it start? How many participants are you anticipating? Who is your charity sponsor?

The Ottawa Physio Race was first created as an initiative of the Ottawa District of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association in 1988, in order to raise awareness about physiotherapy and to raise money for the Physiotherapy Foundation of Canada. It is the kick off to the National Physiotherapy month held every May. A handful of dedicated physiotherapists volunteer their time and hard work to put the race together, and it is clear that it has paid off, as we are here today, 24 years later, and bigger than ever with nearly 600 participants.

We have grown enough over the years to be able to raise funds for a new recipient charity every year, as well as continue to support the Eastern Ontario District of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association and the Physiotherapy Foundation of Canada. Our main recipient charity in 2012 will be The In Community (www.theincommunity.ca), a local group who provides variety of mobility aids to those in need free of charge in the Ottawa area.

Road races promote a healthy and fit community. Do you feel the Ottawa Physio Race is a major factor in motivating people in your community get fit and get involved?

Absolutely! As Physiotherapists, we strive to get the public involved in a healthy, active lifestyle, as well as staying injury-free!

What are the TOP 3 REASONS someone should consider including your race in their April racing schedule?

1) It is a great way to spend time with your family, and meet other health care professionals. The snow has melted, spring is in the air, and it’s time to get some fresh air!
2) Great way to get your 5km or 10km race pace prior to running the Ottawa Race Weekend held every May!
3) We are completely run on a volunteer basis, and try our best to keep the registration price affordable. All proceeds go to charity.

What differentiates the Ottawa Physio Race from other road races across Canada? Are there any unique traditions?

50% of all proceeds are donated to a local charity in the Ottawa area. This charity does not have government funding, and is often in much need of help. Our main charity recipient often changes yearly. The rest of proceeds go towards Physiotherapy Research. As a tradition, we offer a physiotherapy team (3 participants) to involve our profession in the event and challenge our colleagues!

 

How important is it to you that Canada provides better support to its Olympic caliber athletes through initiatives like Run Canada month?

As physiotherapist, we support our Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Funding for our athletes are often lacking, and they deserve all the support they can get! In fact, the Ottawa Physio Race has had the Canadian Association of Disabled Skiers as our main charity recipient in the past.

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