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Mathieu Dufresne, one of the organizers and VP (business development) for La Turquoise, tells us about the Course aux 1000 pieds, which was held on May 5th, 2019.
Road races to support the Fondation des Samares
Encouraging kids to stay in school
For the sixth year in a row, the Course aux 1000 pieds was held to support the Fondation des Samares. A fixture in Lanaudière Nord since 2004, the Foundation promotes projects designed to keep children in school. “Every year, we fund some 60 projects, most of them suggested by the schools,” explains Mathieu, who is also the Foundation’s president. “Our grants encourage many school and extracurricular activities that enable students to exchange ideas or introduce them to hobbies and encourage experimentation.”
Promoting healthy lifestyles
In addition to serving a noble cause, the event provides an annual opportunity for more than 1,200 young people to discover the joy of running. The registration fee for those under 17 is just $5. “Accessibility is our trademark,” says Mathieu. “It’s an opportunity to raise funds for children, and also for them to participate.”
Proud sponsor: La Turquoise
Strong involvement
Year after year, La Turquoise has been an active supporter of the Course aux 1000 pieds. Its employees, like Mathieu, help organize the event or contribute to its success by volunteering onsite on the day itself. They work together to close streets, handle parking and registration, and provide refreshments for the runners. La Turquoise also makes its branch offices in Joliette available to the organizing committee for their meetings prior to the races, and is, of course, inherently well qualified to provide complimentary liability insurance for the event!
La Course aux 1000 pieds: a group success
Launching a human adventure
With his two daughters attending local schools, Mathieu got involved in the Foundation a few years ago. As soon as he joined its board, he wanted to organize a new fundraising event. “As a keen runner, I saw right away that there was room for a new race in our area,” he says. “In a few weeks, the organizing committee was established, the City of Joliette supported us, and the Foundation helped us launch the project.”
Mathieu Dufresne and his family
Inclusion in Quebec’s race calendar
Since the first edition in 2014, all the key people in the community have been helping to improve the route and the logistics. “Our event is now recognized by the running community in Quebec,” notes Mathieu. “The Course aux 1000 pieds is even listed on running websites! We are proud that the quality of the races attracts both running enthusiasts and sponsors.” The event’s success can be measured by the steadily growing amount raised – from $10,000 in the first year to this year’s total amount of $62,000. The organisation was aiming to raise $50, 000 in 2019 - what a success!
Plans for the 2019 edition
Runs for all ages and all levels
Some 3250 runners were on the start line on May 5. Registration for the 2K and the 5K were already full a few weeks before the race, but more experienced runners could still register for the 10K or 15K. “There aren’t that many 15K races on the running calendar,” says Mathieu. “We’re hoping to become a popular fixture!”
He also wants to mention the “Bout’chou” kids’ race for 2- to 6-year-olds: “Seeing children running the 300 metres as if it were a marathon and winning a medal is a real blast!” They were more than 300 this year!
Companies can participate in a 10 x 1 km relay. “Corporate participation has been increasing over the last four years, adding to the amount we can raise,” he explains. “Their enthusiasm raises the Foundation’s profile with the local business community. In fact, a local business has stepped forward to sponsor each edition of the races so far.” 47 teams were on the starting line on May 5.
This year’s event features something new: participants who made a donation over and above their registration fee received special bibs and will also wear a fluorescent armband. Perhaps you’d like to be that kind of celebrity!
A family fun atmosphere
Physical effort is required, of course, but the mood is light-hearted! “We encourage people to run in dress-up,” says Mathieu. For the corporate relay, some people choose a theme and order special sweaters for the occasion. Some are there to have fun, and others are there to get a trophy!” Over 130 volunteers were on hand to assist you, and there was music, face painting for the children, and numerous stands with a sports and fitness message.
So how about lacing up your running shoes for a good cause next year? Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on the 2020 edition of the Course aux mille pieds !
Like Mathieu Dufresne, our brokers are strongly connected to their community and its projects. Feel free to contact any of them to talk about your projects that will need insurance. They’ll be very happy to help you help your community!