On Saturday, April 26, Horseshoe Resort will play host to more than 500 trail runners at the first race in the 2008 5Peaks Trail Running Series.

What is special about this first race is that participants can “shave a few seconds off” their race times by collecting donations and getting their heads shaved, all in support of the Barrie and District Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society.

“The unfortunate reality is that pretty much everyone has been affected by cancer in some way or another. Either personally, or through family and friends, everyone has had some experience with this disease,” said John Klich, race director for the Ontario 5Peaks Trail Running Series.

Klich speaks from experience. As a Toronto EMS paramedic, he often provides support and care for cancer patients in various stages of their illness.

On a personal level, he has had several family members and friends undergo the ordeal of cancer diagnosis and treatment in the past few years.

He hopes the 5Peaks runners will embrace this opportunity to contribute to a great cause and make a very cool (and aerodynamic) statement about themselves by shearing their locks.

In addition to funding for research and treatment, education, detection and patient/family support are some of the valuable services the Canadian Cancer Society provides.

The shave-a-thon will take place at 9 a.m. before the 10 a.m. race.

There are several ways participants can contribute to the cause. Interested ‘shavers’ can register and collect donations during the time leading up to the race. Pledge sheets can be downloaded from the website

For those reluctant to make such a ‘bald’ statement, they can make a fixed donation and receive a ‘fake shave (bald cap) at the event.

Donations of any amount will also be accepted at the event.

This will be the second year the top trail running series has held an event at Horseshoe Resort, located just north of Barrie.

This year’s season opener will feature three course distances: Sport five-kilometer, Endure 10-kilometre and Scotia Bank Children’s Challenge (a 600-metre fun run for kids up to 10.)

Runners can register online, or in person on race day.

2008 marks the 10th anniversary of 5Peaks, Canada’s premier trail-running series, with 24 events across the country.

There are five races in Southern Ontario. Each event hosts approximately 400-600 athletes over some of the country’s most spectacular terrain.