Avid runner, adopted Merrittonian and Merritt Country Run race director Mary Jorgensen is enthusiastic about the upcoming fourth annual event – to put it mildly.

As she’s gearing up for race day on June 9, the endlessly energetic Jorgensen is also wrapping up this year’s Begin to Run course, comprised of a group of people who take up running, some for the first time, in a supportive environment, to prepare for the race.

Registration for this year’s Begin to Run course, which has since been taken over by the city, cost members $80 and included a T-shirt and registration in the run.

The group met on Tuesday at the Civic Centre to share their success stories before pounding the pavement.

Jorgensen said it’s not unusual for people who start off hating running to leave the course enjoying the activity itself as well as its multitude of added benefits.

“There are people who keep coming back and who’ve done it for all three years,” she said.

The course also hosts guest speakers on various running-related topics.

Those included nutrition, attire, footwear, and proper technique.

Race day registration for teams has ended, but individuals can still register at merrittcountryrun.ca.

Runners can choose a 5km, 10km, or half-marathon distance this year.

“Each run is certified in its distance,” she said. “There are many avid runners out there who time themselves to try to break time, so they like to know they’re running the right distances.”

All the proceeds from the event go to Canadian Tire’s JumpStart program, which helps fund children’s participation in sports. Last year, the proceeds helped give 126 kids in Merritt the chance to participate in sports.

Jorgensen said she started the race and the beginners’ course for two reasons: to bring in tourists, and to promote healthy living in Merritt.

“I want people to get out there and exercise. Running is good for your heart and your lungs,” she said.

Once the race is over, Jorgensen said it’s all about keeping people fit and active in the valley.

“My challenge, after this course is done, is to be able to continue a run club so it’s not just leading up to one event, but continuously improving health and fitness,” she said.

The races kick off 8 a.m. on June 9 from Voght Park. Registration prices increase by $5 or $10 (depending on the run length) on June 1.