Running the Risks

Posted By Haneen Al-Hassoun on Nov 5, 2019 | 0 comments


Marathons are often seen as a healthy and active way to bring communities together. But when tragedy strikes, the race community is faced with difficult questions about whether or not these types of events are still safe. Two young men lost their lives this year, just months apart, at two of Ottawa’s biggest running events – Ottawa Race Weekend and the Canada Army Run. “Running the Risks” speaks to the running community about what can be done to prevent these types of tragedies in the future. 

59-year-old David Dazéhas ran a marathon every year for the past 30 years. 
Ian Fraser became the executive director of Ottawa Race Weekend earlier this year. Despite medical clearance not being a race requirement, Fraser encourages all runners to check to see if they have any underlying health or heart conditions prior to participating.
Ian Fraser became the executive director of Ottawa Race Weekend earlier this year. Despite medical clearance not being a race requirement, Fraser encourages all runners to check to see if they have any underlying health or heart conditions prior to participating. 
Ottawa paramedic Marc-Antoine Deschamps says preparation is essential for race day. Multiple paramedics are on site – many cycling throughout the race course to ensure ample coverage.