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Saturday July 11, 2026

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Celebrating 30 Years of Community, Commitment, and Care: The Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk Marks a Milestone Anniversary

The 30th Anniversary of the Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk is more than a celebration of a beloved community tradition—it’s a testament to Meaford’s unwavering commitment to local healthcare. What began as the Big Apple Race in the late 1970s, evolved, adapted, and ultimately flourished into the event we know today: a signature fundraiser supporting Brightshores Meaford Hospital Foundation and a cherished annual gathering that brings together families, athletes, volunteers, and supporters from across the region.

Over 29 years, this event has raised more than $1.15 million for essential hospital equipment and priority needs. That remarkable total reflects thousands of individual contributions, countless volunteer hours, and a community that shows up—year after year—to strengthen local healthcare close to home.

For 25 years, the Big Apple Race was a fixture in Meaford’s fall calendar, drawing runners to the scenic waterfront and celebrating the spirit of the Apple Harvest. As the original race was nearing its end, Brian Renken was approached about taking it over. He reimagined its future – transforming it into what we now know as the Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk and established it as a fundraising event for the Meaford Hospital Foundation. His leadership ensured the tradition not only continued, but grew into a meaningful source of support for local healthcare.

What followed was a period of extraordinary growth. Participation increased, fundraising goals rose, and the event became a cornerstone of the Hospital Foundation’s annual efforts. Chip timing was introduced, community challenges were launched, and the iconic HRW t-shirt became a badge of honour for hundreds of participants each year.

Today, the Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk stands as one of Meaford’s most enduring and successful Hospital Foundation fundraisers – an event built by many hands, guided by passionate volunteers, and sustained by a community that believes deeply in accessible, modern healthcare.

Each year, the Meaford Harbour 5k Run/Walk has supported a specific hospital priority—from diagnostic imaging to cancer care, mental health initiatives, emergency department equipment, and other capital campaigns. While the full list of contributions is long and meaningful, the story they tell is clear: this event has consistently delivered what the hospital needs most.

Thirty years of the Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk represents far more than numbers. It represents neighbours helping neighbours, families honouring loved ones, volunteers giving their time, and a community choosing – again and again – to invest in its hospital.

As part of this milestone year, the Foundation will be profiling some of the key individuals who shaped the event—from early organizers to long-serving volunteers, sponsors, and community champions. Their stories reflect the heart of this event: dedication, creativity, and a belief that small communities can achieve extraordinary things when they work together. Follow the Meaford Harbour Run/Walk Facebook and Instagram pages to celebrate these local heroes.

As we mark the 30th anniversary, we honour the past, embrace the present, and look ahead with optimism. This year’s Run/Walk promises to be one of the most memorable yet.

    • Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
    • Goal: $100,000 for the Emergency Department revitalization campaign
    • Registration: Opened on March 1st with early bird pricing
    • Bonus: The first 500 5K registrants receive the iconic 30th Anniversary HRW t-shirt

    Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, a volunteer, or a proud supporter cheering from the sidelines, this is the year to be part of the tradition, and we can’t wait to see you at the start line.

    2025
    29th Annual Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk
    Surpassed All Expectations

    2025 Event Photos
    2025 Results Page

    The Meaford community came together in spectacular fashion on Saturday, July 12, for the 29th annual Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk, proudly supporting the Meaford Hospital Foundation. With more than 500 spirited participants braving the summer heat to run, walk, and stroll through Meaford’s harbour area and friendly neighbourhoods, this year’s event proved once again why it’s a cherished highlight in the region’s calendar.

    The Meaford community came together in spectacular fashion on Saturday, July 12, for the 29th annual Meaford Harbour 5K Run/Walk, proudly supporting the Meaford Hospital Foundation. With more than 500 spirited participants braving the summer heat to run, walk, and stroll through Meaford’s harbour area and friendly neighbourhoods, this year’s event proved once again why it’s a cherished highlight in the region’s calendar.

    From runners pushing their pace to families strolling in solidarity, the turnout reflected the town’s unwavering commitment to quality health care and local impact. This event wouldn’t have been possible without an incredible organizing committee, a team of enthusiastic volunteers, and the generous sponsors who helped bring the vision to life.

    The morning began with an energetic start as kids ages 10 and under raced through the 1km Kids FunRun, cheered on by family and fans. Their enthusiasm set the tone for a joyful and inspiring morning.

    A surprise highlight awaited participants mid-course—a lively performance by the Scarecrow Kazoo Band, stationed near the waterfront. Their playful tunes added an unforgettable soundtrack to the race. Along the route, much-needed hydration was served at water stations run by the Hospital’s Auxiliary.

    This year’s extraordinary sponsor support and the heartfelt pledges of participants raised a record-breaking total of $115,000. THANK YOU!!

    “The Harbour Run/Walk is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a tradition, a community rallying point, and a reflection of the incredible people who call Meaford home,” said Vince Rogers, Executive Director of the Meaford Hospital Foundation.

    The Meaford Hospital Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to every participant, volunteer, and supporter who made this day a resounding success. Special thanks go to our lead sponsors—Dr. Sauriol, Brenda Calvert of Locations North Realty, Meaford Dental Clinic, and Sinclair Homes—whose generosity was instrumental in achieving this remarkable result

    Thanks for being part of this year’s event!