When Sherwood Park, Alta.’s Laura Sherrer-Townsend first laced up her trainers 19 years in the past, with the objective of staying lively after having triplets, she had no concept it could spark an epic, long-distance journey. What began as a post-pregnancy pastime shortly developed right into a ardour for the game and the working group. Quickly, Sherrer-Townsend was tackling ultra-distance occasions and setting an bold objective: 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 primarily based 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 primary purpose she began the occasion. Her 50 earlier than 50 problem was pushed by a need to boost funds for the Centre’s academic program, held in native faculties. 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 occurring to different youngsters,” 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 troublesome bout with plantar fasciitis, forcing her to switch her coaching with climbing and water working. 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 every other. Sherrer-Townsend had initially chosen Misplaced Soul Extremely, held in Lethbridge, Alta., to be her 50 earlier than 50 finale, however record-breaking temperatures compelled her to drop out of the race.
When she accomplished her objective in late September at River’s Edge Extremely, held in Devon, Alta., Sherrer-Townsend says she felt a number of reduction. “It ended up being good because it was near house. Plenty of working mates and supporters had been on the end line,” she mentioned, 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 drive in the neighborhood
Identified to be a cheerleader to all these round her, Sherrer-Townsend’s contagious enthusiasm leaves an affect. Canadian ultrarunning star Priscilla Forgie met Sherrer-Townsend by the Edmonton path working group. “In case you’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with Laura her infectious snort and vibrant power,” Forgie informed Canadian Working. “She is actually a light-weight and the definition of what group is all about.”
Dean Johnson, a Lethbridge-based working 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 mentioned, 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 wants speedy assist, name or textual content 1-866-403-8000 to succeed in the confidential Alberta’s One-Line for Sexual Violence; for elsewhere in Canada, discover a checklist of sources right here.
