Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Curtis Goodrum

BOOGIE THE BRIDGE

Boogie the Bridge training comes to a close leaving trainees well-prepared for Sunday

Apr 24, 2025 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS – There are just a few days to go before the latest edition of CFJC TV’s Boogie the Bridge, as participants complete their final preparations ahead of Sunday’s (April 27) event.

Over the past eight weeks, the Kamloops RUNClub has been training people of all skill levels, ranging from those who have have never considered running until now all the way to the most experienced.

“We have beginner runners who are just nailing it. We have a great group of half-marathon runners. We also have our power walking group. So we have a lovely community and they’re finishing up their training this week,” Jo Berry, RUNClub Founder and the Executive Director of the Boogie the Bridge Society said.

Some of the people who started with limited experience are now looking to expand their running skills.

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“We did the same route we did the first time. They couldn’t believe they were so tired from that exercise. They’ve been asking about what to do next or how they can improve from here. It’s empowering to see and then for them to feel it in themselves,” said Mandy Finley, a beginner’s coach at RUNClub.

It’s not just about the running though as the athletes have created a special atmosphere for athletes, allowing them to create strong relationships.

“I coach really for the atmosphere, the crowd, the motivation, all around it just keeps me coming back for more. This is my second year coaching and the people I coach usually want to keep coming back for the atmosphere more than the running,” said Carlo Sia, an intermediate coach at RUNClub.

The power of friendship also gives many of these runners a reason to keep pushing.

“Friends push you and you strive to do better. Along with our coaches. They always get you to do that extra mile or that extra kilometre. It’s always so much fun,” said Jaqie Brun, a RUNClub trainee.

The Kamloops RUNClub also wants to make sure that the people they train keep the skills they learn so they can use it not just in Sunday’s race, but in life.

“I just love seeing when the light goes on in someone’s eyes, they think ‘Holy cow, I can do this.’ After that, they’re just off and running,” said Berry.

If you still want to compete in Boogie the Bridge this year, you can sign-up on race day this Sunday.

You can find more information on Boogie the Bridge, including race maps, here.