What better way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning than raising money for a great charitable cause. That’s just what thousands of people did this past weekend at the GTAA’s 2009 Runway Run at Toronto Pearson.

More than 2,000 smiling and excited faces entered runway 24L/6R just after 9:00am on Saturday morning, eager to get the race started. There was a great mix of competitive runners and those just out of the enjoyment of the event. Everyone was looking forward to actually setting foot on one of Toronto Pearson’s busiest runways.

Just before the gun sounded to begin the race, participants were surprised by a CF-18 fly-by over the runway. This got everyone’s adrenaline flowing, and the runners were set to go.

Those involved in the 5 kilometer chip-timed event were the first out of the blocks. A few minutes later they were followed by the more relaxed participants in the 2 kilometer family walk. Awe filled faces were everywhere as runners and walkers whizzed past the Air Canada A319 and FED EX 727 planes parked on the runway and enjoyed a perfect vantage point for watching take-offs and landings on the adjacent runway.

With an impressive time of 17:49, Brampton’s Alex Colbourne was the first runner to cross the finish line.

“I am extremely pleased to say that we reached our goal of raising $100,000 for the Credit Valley Foundation at the race,” said Toby Lennox, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications for the GTAA. “Some donations and raffle money are still coming in so exact totals are not finalized, but everyone involved is very proud to have been part of such a successful event and the planning has already begun for next year’s event!”

An event of this magnitude does not happen without volunteers. The GTAA would like to thank nearly 100 airport employees, air cadets, Georgian College student and members of the local community who volunteered. Thanks to their enthusiasm and dedication, Runway Run 2009 was a great success.