About - The Great Canadian Running Challenge

The Great Canadian Running Challenge began as a dream!

The Great Canadian Running Challenge started as a dream and evolved into “My Time – My Fitness home to A Great Canadian Running Challenge,” emphasizing the dedication required to cover 1000 km in one year. In our busy lives, with jobs, families, and responsibilities, we often neglect our health and fitness goals. This challenge serves as a reminder of your own importance; it’s your motivation to focus on self-improvement.

You can track your progress on our Website, connect with other participants, and share your journey with our supportive community on Facebook. Whether your target is 500 km, 1000 km, or more, you’ll experience the benefits of this commitment. Remember, to be strong for others, you must prioritize your well-being. Dedicate time daily for walking, jogging, hiking, running, meditation, yoga, or strength training. Embrace it and commit to being healthy and strong. This challenge could be life-changing.

The challenge is now expanding to incorporate various distance-based fitness activities. In 2022, we introduced a series of Leaderboards to inspire nationwide participation and a commitment to fitness. This year, with our upcoming 2025 season, we are introducing Canadian Go-Boards, all new Leaderboards without a ranking system designed to reduce pressure and enhance motivation. A leaderboard without a ranking system can strengthen motivation and enjoyment, making it easier to achieve your goals while fostering a supportive community. No excuses now—this is your chance to concentrate on your health and wellness.

About the Founder

My name is Jeannette. I am a mother to three wonderful adult children, a grandparent, and the eldest of five sisters. I grew up in a quaint northern Ontario town.

My career as a Grade 1 French Immersion teacher has been incredibly fulfilling. I adore my work and believe teaching is my true vocation.

While I cherish my profession, retirement is a prospect I eagerly anticipate.

Running is my passion, but I’m not a speedy runner or an elite athlete. I run for my sanity! It invigorates me and keeps me mentally sound and fit.

Following my back surgery in 2018, my surgeon advised against running. Nevertheless, I now jog gently and slowly, sometimes incorporating intervals. Being out on the streets, pounding the pavement, and singing my favourite songs rejuvenates me and affirms the joy of living. Without running, irritability sets in, and I feel uncomfortable in my skin. At times, depression and anxiety can be overwhelming, but running offers a temporary respite from my thoughts. It has become an essential part of my life.

The Great Canadian Running Challenge and its Website were established to build a community nationwide. The goal was to connect people from every region with a common purpose: to walk, jog, or run 1000 km within a year.

Creating this website and leaderboards was challenging, yet the impact on many lives has been rewarding. I work alone to answer your questions, wish you luck, and cheer you on as you strive to reach your goals throughout the year. Your success stories, the weight you’ve lost, the health you’ve gained, and the friendships you’ve made are what I cherish most.

Regrettably, I have not received sponsorship or any other funding to support this website and its mission. I rely solely on your support to help pay the costs incurred to maintain the website! Please help support this challenge by purchasing a medal or swag from our shop today or visit our donation page. Your support is much appreciated!

I always envisioned uniting individuals with a zeal for attaining similar health and fitness objectives. Driven by a passion for challenges, I noticed a scarcity of captivating Canadian events, prompting me to pour my heart and soul into this venture. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has grown across the nation.

I firmly believe in the power of connection. Connecting with individuals who share our goals and interests propels us towards achieving them.

By registering for this challenge, you may find a spark within you that’s ready to ignite. You might be prepared to take control of your health in ways previously unimagined. You can implement minor changes to evolve into a better version of yourself.

Regardless of your motivations, transformation occurs when you believe in yourself, love yourself, and allocate time to heal your body, mind, and spirit.

This challenge is for everyone! It requires commitment, discipline, perseverance, and dedication.

Please become part of our community today. Join us and be inspired.