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700 have fun in spite of the rain!
Montreal Region - Health Day 2006
By Guylaine Fortin, Servir newspaper
Jean-Louis Otis (right), a physical education instructor at the Montreal Garrison, gives instructions to the numerous kayakers just before they set off for a brief excursion on the St. Lawrence River.Photo: Guylaine Fortin |
On Friday, May 19, 2006, Health Day 2006 was held at the Îles-de-Boucherville national park for the Montreal region. In spite of a grey sky, more than 700 persons streamed through the checkpoints at the park to enjoy the day in an outdoor setting. Numerous activities took place much to the delight of the participants.
The event, which was organized by the health promotion team, started off in the rain. Undeterred, members and civilians along with members of their families showed up wearing running shoes or rubber boots, with broad smiles on their faces. The sixty or so volunteers who had already been working prepared warm drinks for those who felt chilly and exciting activities for the more active participants.
Christian Roy, PSP Manager, 5 ASG; CWO Jutras, 5 ASG; Col Champagne, 5 ASG CO; Annie Mayrand, winner of the bicycle drawn at the end of the day; Alice Piotrowski, Director Health Promotion (and major organizer of the event) and Maelie and Dorianne, Mrs. Mayrand's daughters.Photo: MCpl Yves Proteau |
When the rain finally went away at around 10 a.m., passengers took a ride on a pontoon. Kayakers paddled across the water, walkers strode down quiet paths and cyclists rode along, truly enjoying themselves. They had already put Mother Nature's moodiness behind them. About thirty children took part in the treasure hunt, not counting those who went into the MFRC tent to colour an apron or to have their faces made up.
Though they had been visited all day, the health promotion, Sports and Recreation Program (SRP) clubs, Resource Conservation and MFRC stands once again served as shelters after lunch. The rain had come back! The guests of honour drew the door prizes under the cover of several umbrellas.
