This year the run will be held as a virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Image Credit: FACEBOOK / Brennan's Ugly Sweater Run

This year marks the fourth annual Brennan’s Ugly Sweater Run in Kamloops and like many other events amidst the pandemic it’s going to look a little different.

Payton Comazzetto founded the run in honour of her brother Brennan, who was tragically hit and killed by a drunk driver at the age of ten.

"I decided to put on a run, and put my passion for running into something in memory of him,” Comazzetto said. "The whole idea behind it is to get out moving, and active with their friends and family to kick-off the holiday season, because for most people the holiday season is the most difficult time of the year."

All the proceeds from registration fees go towards the Kamloops Boys and Girls Club Power Star program, which sponsors breakfasts for children in need.

“They actually go pick up kids from their homes, bring them to school, feed them a nutritious breakfast and give them a recess snack,” she said. "During the lockdown, they hand delivered 4,824 breakfasts to children in our community. They’re doing a tonne of good work."

In past years, locals would don a Christmas sweater and holiday attire to meet up for the five kilometre run, prizes and hot chocolate at the West Hylands Community Center.

But with the COVID-19 health orders in place, Comazzetto had to get innovative with this year’s run.

“This year is quite a bit different, but we still wanted to get people out and raise some money for a good cause,” she said.

Participants can join in anywhere around the world, and submit photos in their ugly sweater or Christmas attire.

The goal at the end of the 5 km, whether it’s running, walking, snowshoeing or any activity outdoors, is to connect with someone.

“Whether that’s someone in your household, or phoning a friend, whatever it is,” she said.

They will be giving away over 50 prizes on a Facebook livestream. All participants are automatically entered in draws, and can also win a prize in categories like ugliest sweaters, best (safe) after-parties and festive pets.

Those who live in Kamloops can get their prize delivered, and the rest will be shipped out. Locals can also stop by Amplified Cafe from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to pick up a swag bag and win bonus prizes.

People have signed up for the run from as far away as Ireland, Australia, Tazmania, Sweden and Switzerland.

“They’re helping Kamloops kids, so that’s pretty cool,” Comazzetto said. “I can’t wait to see those photos."

The goal this year is to feed 120 children breakfasts for a year, which is $15,000. With registrations so far, they’ve reached about 51 per cent of their goal, Comazzetto said.

However, she’s hopeful that some more sign-ups will come in this week.

Brennan’s Ugly Sweater Run takes place this Sunday, Dec. 6 from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

To participate, make a minimum $15 donation per person, or a $40 donation per family of four or more. Pets are welcome too, with an $8 minimum donation per four legged participant. 

To register click here. For more information including suggested Kamloops running paths and a custom-made holiday running playlist, click here.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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