The Red Mile, a dedication to our hometown hero, Constable Douglas James Larche
July 31, 2014 (New Brunswick) – Organizers of the 20th annual Emera Marathon by the Sea are honoured to announce that the first mile of this year’s marathon will be dedicated to the life of Constable Douglas James Larche, Saint John’s hometown hero. Cst. Larche, along with two of his RCMP colleagues, was tragically killed in the line of duty on June 4, 2014. Members of the RCMP and their families, the Saint John Police Force and other local detachments will be in attendance for the dedication.
Raised in Saint John, Cst. Larche was an avid runner, finishing many races including a marathon, several half marathons and numerous shorter distances. In 2009, he returned home to participate in Marathon by the Sea’s half marathon.
The run will begin at the Fisher Lake parking lot, in Rockwood Park, at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 10. The first Red Mile will lead runners out of the park. Spectators are asked to be on-site at 7:45 a.m.
All runners and spectators are asked to consider wearing red during the event. Whether it be an article of clothing, or ribbon tied around their arm. A limited supply of commemorative red bracelets will be available at the event, and can be purchased with a minimum five dollar donation. Proceeds from the bracelets will go to the Moncton Fallen RCMP Members Fund. Chalk will also be available during registration and packet pick-up the day before the race for runners to scribe a dedication message on the first mile of the course. Portions of the same road surface will be lined with red to represent The Red Mile.
Police cruisers will be positioned at the start line. Their sirens will sound to initiate the beginning of the run, and uniformed police officers will be present along the first mile as runners pass by. Members will also be available with volunteers at the finish line to greet, congratulate and present medals to the runners.
More information on the 2014 Emera Marathon by the Sea can be found by visiting www.marathonbythesea.com.
Anyone looking to make a donation to the families of Cst. Douglas James Larche, Cst. Fabrice George Gevaudan, and Cst. Dave Ross, is asked to do so through the Moncton Fallen RCMP Members Fund.
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Media Contact
Lisa Caissie
(506)648-3714
