Calgary brothers tackling 50 half-marathons in 50 weeks for local food bank
The Lavoie brothers have already run 45 half-marathons all across North America and raised an impressive $70,000
Photo by:
Neil Zeller
The Calgary running community is abuzz with the inspiring story of two brothers, Doug and Paul Lavoie, who have taken on a lengthy task to combat food insecurity in their city. The Lavoie duo is on a mission to run and complete 50 half-marathon races in 50 weeks, all in support of their local food bank.
The Lavoie brothers have already run 45 in-person half-marathons all across North America and raised an impressive $70,000 for the Calgary Food Bank.
As they continue their inspiring journey toward 50, Doug and Paul have set their sights on the fundraising target of $100,000 for the Calgary Food Bank, which will distribute thousands of quality meals for those in need. Their 50th half-marathon is scheduled for Sept. 24, 2023, which happens to be Doug’s 50th birthday, in Calgary. The brothers have invited the local community to come out and support their local food bank and run alongside them for their 50th and final half-marathon.
According to local news, the Lavoie brothers chose to support the Calgary Food Bank due to its crucial role in helping those grappling with the rising cost of food prices. “The food bank is an incredible organization,” shared Doug. “Just their ability to distribute food and their network of food banks they support–it was a no-brainer.”
The duo most recently completed the Summer Lovin Half Marathon in Santa Monica, Calif., but their half-marathon journey has taken them to places as diverse as New York City, Boston, Palm Springs, Vancouver and Calgary’s own Servus Calgary Half Marathon in May 2023.
“Birthdays can be a moment for all of us to celebrate and reflect upon how we can be our best version; not only for ourselves, but also our community,” writes Doug.
The brothers’ dedication to this cause has garnered widespread support in the city, with the running community and beyond rallying behind them. To follow or support their cause, you can search #The5040 on canadahelps.org.
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