Runners enjoy fall colours at Trail Trot's 35th annual gathering

Runners of all ages enjoyed scenic views and beautiful fall colours at Hiawatha Highlands on Sunday as the Trail Trot returned to Kinsmen Park for the first time since 2019.

Hosted by the Soo Finnish Nordic Ski Club, the 35th annual Trail Trot gathered nearly 300 athletes from the ages of three to 80. The turnout was double the target that event coordinator Greg MacLachlan had aimed for when SooToday spoke with him earlier this month.

The Trail Trot featured a trio of races:

• 1-kilometre run for children aged 3-7
• 2-kilometre run for children aged 8-13
• 5-kilometre run for high school and adult athletes

“The five-kilometre is a very rugged trail full of hills, beautiful creeks, and water features over challenging terrain,” MacLachlan said. “The 2-kilometre race is a great way for any kids in grades 4-8 to run the course that they will run at the elementary cross-country championship meet on October 4.”

Competitors finishing first, second, and third place in all races and age divisions won medals and prizes for their performances. Overall winners in the 2- and 5-kilometre races also won a winter trail pass to Hiawatha Highlands.

This year’s Trail Trot raised more than $4,000 through admission fees and donations, which will go towards supporting the Soo Finnish Nordic Ski Club.

"The organizers and I were ecstatic to get twice the number of athletes we were expecting, and to see so many community members spectating a sport which highlights the geographical and aesthetic beauty of our area," MacLachlan said. 

“Trail Trot organizers would like to thank Algoma Bicycle Company, Velorution, Metro, Vintage Games N’ Junque, and Hiawatha Ice Cream for their support and for helping to promote the outdoors and healthy active lifestyles."

Overall winners

1-kilometre race:

• Grant Rainone (male)
• Ella White (female)

2-kilometre race:

• Jasper Tchir (male)
• Arabella MacLachlan (female)

5-kilometre race:

• Daniel Scarpino (male)
• Marijke De Geus (female)

Full results of each race can be viewed by clicking here.