This past Thursday night was the 2nd edition of Run Calgary’s “Beat Beethoven” event. Feedback from club members is that this event is absolutely a “must do” whether you participate or volunteer.

Sylvie’s feedback as a participant:

“You know the saying “does it spark joy”? The Beat Beethoven race is an Ode to Joy! As you may or may not know, I am very excitable and this race is the first race I signed up for this year. I heard about it last year from a co-worker. His words: “Why wouldn’t you run 8 kms listening to live music played by CPO on St. Patrick’s Island and drink Taittinger Champagne afterwards?” It didn’t take me long to sign up. All these things excited me and not necessarily in that order!

The thought of this race uplifted me each time I heard it mentioned. This time around, my co-worker Frank, Graeme, and 700 other people joined us. I believe participant turnout this year was more than double last year. And, this year the weather was perfect and everything was exhilarating. Running was great – you could hear Beethoven being played everywhere along the route – especially where you needed it most (on the hills).

Seeing familiar faces like Jeri (volunteering) and the amazing couple Steph (marketing manager at RunCalgary) & Connor made it even more enjoyable. I didn’t quite “beat Beethoven” this year, meaning the orchestra stopped playing before I finished the 8k course, but I crossed the finish-line happy.  Afterwards we took in post race festivities including listening to the orchestra play some tunes, eating a very healthy and delicious meal AND enjoying a glass of French Rosé Wine in a keepsake wine glass.

Did I mention the awesome finisher medals? This year’s is a wine bottle opener:

And last year’s was a bottle stopper”

Did I say how much I love this race? I will be back next year!” ~Sylvie

Jeri’s feedback as a volunteer:

“Volunteering at the recent “Beat Beethoven” road race put on by RunCalgary in collaboration with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) was truly and uplifting experience. A beautiful location (Calgary’s East Village along the Bow River), friendly runners, and a short time commitment (2 hours) is further enhanced by being serenaded the entire time by a live performance by the CPO. There is also a post race concert which all volunteers can attend. I was a volunteer at the aid station on St. Patrick’s Island and the wonderful sounds of the CPO playing as we handed out water and Nuun made for an enjoyable evening. We didn’t mind as we hummed along (even off key) or played the air drums.

If you love music and would enjoy volunteering at an evening event that is truly unique, consider “Beat Beethoven” next year.” ~Jeri

Thank you Sylvie and Jeri for sharing your experience with us! 

LYNX Crew