Fifth annual Canal Pursuit for Mental Health

Members of 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron took off running in support of mental health.

Nine Search and Rescue Technicians took part in a 100 km run between Trenton and Kingston today (Wednesday).

Canal Pursuit for Mental Health organizer Clay Williams speaks with 8 Wing Commander Col. Ryan Deming. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)

The Canal Pursuit for Mental Health began five years ago with organizer Clay Williams.

He says in addition to the fundraising, the response to this event has been all good.

The full journey is 750km long and ends at Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Williams says he’s heard from numerous people throughout his journey that mental health needs to be more of a priority.

Jody Hynez got involved with the run and provided the SAR Techs for this year’s run.

He points out there is also a Canadian flag that has followed Williams from the start of his journey to today and it carries a much bigger significance.

Clay Williams shows off the signed Canadian flag that has covered every step of the 750km journey as part of the Canal Pursuit for Mental Health, along with 8 Wing Trenton Commander Col. Ryan Deming. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)

Kathleen Malley ran 10 kms to Bain Park where she handed off the Canadian flag to Sgt. Paul Andre Forgues who began his leg of the journey.

Organizer Clay Williams gives Kathleen Malley a high five as she and nine-month-old Juliet finish a 10km portion of the Canal Pursuit for Mental Health. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)

Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison with participants in the fifth annual Canal Pursuit for Mental Health from 424 Squadron. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)

Sgt. Paul Andre Forgues begins his portion of the Trenton-Kingston relay as part of the Canal Pursuit for Mental Health. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)

8 Wing Commander Col. Ryan Deming with nine-month-old Juliet Malley who slept most of her 20 km journey in the Canal Pursuit for Mental Health. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)