(Photo by Janet Norman-Bain) 

The selection of the 2009 Sporting Intentions Male RoadRunner of the Year was a specially difficult choice this year because there were so many deserving RoadRunners nominated. The criteria for the award recognizes the not only the recipient’s training and racing, but also their support of other runners, their assistance with Club activities, and their ability to always give their best.  This year, the award goes to Ivan Gallant of Kensington.

Interest in Running and Helping Beginners:

Ivan has a strong passion for running.  Ivan is always excited to see how many runners "Come out" on race day. 

Ivan always tries to inspire new runners, and is so supportive to runners of all abilities.  Sometimes it is just a kind word.  Sometimes it is a kind action.  One of his nominators wrote the following:

“I will never forget the last kilometer of the Fulton Campbell half-marathon this past June.  After finishing the race, Ivan ran back to meet me and my running partner who was running her first half-marathon.  Ivan talked us through our pain and told us how much was left, and how we would be done after we rounded the last turn.  I will never forget his kindness, calmness and reassurance that I know made me cross the finish line.”

Assistance with Club Activities:

Ivan has been the “force” behind the challenging Harvest Festival 25K run for many years.  Each year he puts forth a great effort in making sure everything runs smoothly and that all runners are safe and hydrated, as this race is often a scorcher!

Training, racing and improvement:

Ivan had a great 2009 running season.  He participated in at least 23 races in 2009.  He had a 21:35 in the UPEI Homecoming 5K, a 46:16 in the Wally Rodd 10K, and a 1:48 in the Fulton Campbell half-marathon.  Ivan has inspired both wife Betty, and daughter Rebecca to run with him.

Always gives his Best:

Ivan is a very determined man in his own quiet way.  He is very dedicated to his own running schedule and sets personal goals for himself to reach as he enters each race.    This year he completed the Island Marathon in a great time (3:59), with an extremely sore back, but you would never hear Ivan complain!

Ivan also never complains about the weather conditions or hills.  He shows up on race day glad to be there, glad to have the ability and strength to run and never gives up.  He is a great role model to all runners.  

Without a doubt, Ivan is a big supporter of running on PEI, and a fine example of a PEI RoadRunner … and we are please to present him with the 2009 Sporting Intentions Male RoadRunner of the Year.

Congratulations Ivan!