An enthusiastic group of runners from Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Vaughan participated in the 11th annual Run for Vaughan.

Participants hit the road on the pathways, snaking around Canada’s Wonderland taking part in either the 10K, 5K or a 1K Family Fun Run. And in doing so, raised funds through pledges for the Mackenzie Health Foundation’s Vaughan Hospital. Sunday’s balmy weather also resulted in several last-minute registrations.

Starting from 200 participants in its first year, 1000 people took part in run for Vaughan this year.

The aim of this run is to raise money for for construction of Vaughan Hospital. So far almost $500,000 have been raised.

City of Vaughan Ward One Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, applauded the event and participants. She said:

“Members of the community contribute so much for the City of Vaughan…The Run for Vaughan has raised over $400,000 for the hospital and this doesn’t happen without participants who run or walk. This would not have been possible.”

Ingrid Perry, Mackenzie Health Foundation president and chief executive officer, said they hope to award the contract for the construction of the new hospital by early next year and target completion by 2019.

Presenting a cheque for $10,000 on behalf of the Mayor’s Gala, City of Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua also praised the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in conducting a charity event for a worthy cause.

“Positive people achieve positive ends. This will be a first-class health facility,” he said.