STORY BY NAT GILPO
The annual Halloween-themed community race event known as Trek or Treat came to Oakville’s St. Volodymyr’s Cultural Centre on Oct. 18. Participants were invited to dress up in costumes for a night of running, scares and, of course, candy. The event reached their goal of collecting 500 pounds of non-perishable food donations, according to the Trek or Treat webpage.
“We started this event as a family event, and we wanted to give back to the community,” said Heather Arnold, race director for Trek or Treat. “I think the donations are going well. It’s about families giving to other families that are in need.” All of the donations collected from the events in Oakville and Collingwood will be sent to various food banks in their respective communities, as well as the Salvation Army.
The night kicked off with The Creepy Mile race, where fully costumed participants of all ages walked, jogged and sprinted through a trail around the cultural centre. The racers were prompted to begin by Oakville Mayor Rob Burton, a newcomer to Trek or Treat this year.
“I saw all kinds of my friends with their kids, and obviously it’s great family fun,” said Burton before the Creepy Mile began. “Everything we do for the needy in our town is always welcome, and very valuable.”
Four students from Sheridan College’s Corporate Communications program have worked alongside Trek or Treat to help publicize the event as part of a course assignment. One of the students, Marcy McMillan, is pleased with the active involvement of Oakville residents.
“Everyone who is coming contributes canned goods, people who aren’t running also contribute, and it just brings the community together,” said McMillan. “I think it’s a great event. I’m personally running while my group members are participating in different ways.”
The family-friendly atmosphere was the main draw for many of the attending Oakville residents, including Amanda Bazante, who participated in the Creepy Mile and 5k Run/Walk with her two small children.
“I’m fairly new to running and I wanted to do something that wasn’t too competitive or challenging, and the Trek or Treat sounded very interesting for my kids,” said Bazante. “They got to dress up and there’s lot’s of treats for them, so it’s a fun night for us.”
Caroline Brown, a volunteer handing out supplies, also felt that the event was a good time for Oakville.
“I think it’s such a great event for kids and families to come together,” said Brown. “Halloween is my favourite time of the year, so it’s just a lot of fun.”
Check out the video of this year’s Trek or Treat.
