When Sherwood Park, Alta.’s Laura Sherrer-Townsend first laced up her trainers 19 years in the past, with the aim of staying energetic after having triplets, she had no thought it will spark an epic, long-distance journey. What began as a post-pregnancy pastime rapidly advanced right into a ardour for the game and the operating neighborhood. Quickly, Sherrer-Townsend was tackling ultra-distance occasions and setting an bold aim: to finish 50 ultras earlier than her fiftieth birthday, whereas championing consciousness and elevating funds for sexual violence prevention.
Working for a private trigger
In 2018, Sherrer-Townsend created and kicked off the primary version of Survivorfest, dubbed “a celebration of energy, sacrifice and survival” in Edmonton. The race raises funds for the Saffron Centre, a non-profit group based mostly in Sherwood Park, Alta., that helps these affected by sexual violence; as a survivor herself, Sherrer-Townsend says that her dedication to stopping sexual violence is the principle motive she began the occasion. Her 50 earlier than 50 problem was pushed by a need to lift funds for the Centre’s instructional program, held in native colleges. Impressed by Calgary ultrarunner Martin Parnell, who accomplished 250 marathons in a single yr, Sherrer-Townsend hopes to make a distinction. “I hope what occurred to me could be prevented from taking place to different kids,” she explains.
Rallying from setbacks for a full-circle end
Sherrer-Townsend’s journey wasn’t and not using a few hurdles. In 2018, a sprained ankle led to a tricky bout with plantar fasciitis, forcing her to switch her coaching with climbing and water operating. COVID-19 additionally threw her race plans for a loop, however she tailored, with digital ultras serving to her full extra races that yr than in another. Sherrer-Townsend had initially chosen Misplaced Soul Extremely, held in Lethbridge, Alta., to be her 50 earlier than 50 finale, however record-breaking temperatures pressured her to drop out of the race.
When she accomplished her aim in late September at River’s Edge Extremely, held in Devon, Alta., Sherrer-Townsend says she felt quite a lot of reduction. “It ended up being excellent because it was near dwelling. Numerous operating mates and supporters have been on the end line,” she stated, including that she was in a position to run with a buddy who was additionally finishing his fiftieth ultramarathon, his earlier than his seventieth birthday.
A power locally
Identified to be a cheerleader to all these round her, Sherrer-Townsend’s contagious enthusiasm leaves an influence. Canadian ultrarunning star Priscilla Forgie met Sherrer-Townsend via the Edmonton path operating neighborhood. “In case you’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with Laura you realize her infectious chortle and vibrant power,” Forgie instructed Canadian Working. “She is really a lightweight and the definition of what neighborhood is all about.”
Dean Johnson, a Lethbridge-based operating coach and race director of Misplaced Soul Extremely, echoed Forgie’s ideas. “When Laura is at a race as a runner or volunteer (she probably volunteers greater than she races), there’s a 30m radius aura/vibe round her. It doesn’t matter how drained she is; she radiates pleasure, happiness, and gratitude,” he stated, including: “She additionally offers the BEST hugs.”
What’s subsequent for Sherrer-Townsend? Effectively, she’s already looking forward to her subsequent problem—60 mountain summits earlier than she’s 60.
To be taught extra concerning the Saffron Centre or to donate, head to their web site right here. In case you or somebody you realize wants speedy assist, name or textual content 1-866-403-8000 to achieve the confidential Alberta’s One-Line for Sexual Violence; for elsewhere in Canada, discover a checklist of sources right here.
