CARP – The 24th Annual Diefenbooker Race is exactly four months away – time to think about training.

The Diefenbooker Race committee is hosting their annual running clinic to help get athletes and wanna-be-athletes ready for the most prestigious running event in West Carleton.

“Train to run a five-kilometre race starting from couch recline, to the finish line,” committee member Kathy Fischer told West Carleton Online today (Jan. 3). “No running experience is necessary, just a will to improve your fitness and prepare for this year’s Diefenbooker running event which will be held Saturday, May 2.”

The clinic is free with your registration in the Diefenbooker. At last year’s Diefenbooker about 850 participants raised $35,000 for literacy improvement and infrastructure in West Carleton. The timed race has been growing more popular every year and is a favourite run for the beginner, those preparing for Ottawa Race Weekend and those who enjoy competitive running. The clinic is a great way to dip your toe in to the sport, improve your health and increase your physical and mental strength.

“We will meet at the West Carleton Athletic Club, upstairs in the meeting room (3832 Carp Rd.)  Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 6:30 p.m. to hear more about what will be offered at this clinic,” Fischer said.

The information session will kick off the clinic which will run (no pun intended) every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. until March 31 – the last Tuesday before race day.

“Information on training, running form, strength training will be provided,” Fischer, who has been a runner for 56 years, said. “Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to feel healthy, strong and mentally refreshed.”  

Following the Jan. 14 info session, those interested can take part in the first session.

“For those who are interested in the running clinic and who want to stay after the info session, we will be going out for a 30 minute brisk walk around the village to loosen up our legs, chat and get to know each other,” Fischer said. “Dress for the weather, wear running shoes and have a head light for this walk and chat. Bring a friend or two or three or make it a family outing. The more the merrier. We’re looking forward to seeing lots of eager people ready to improve their fitness.”

While the site has not yet been updated for this year’s event, contact and registration info can be found here.