Commandant’s Run - Tradition continues after three-year downturn

May 25, 2023 - Defence Stories

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All participants gathered at 5:30 a.m. for the warm-up exercises

On May 23, the tradition of the Commandant's Run was back in full force at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) after a nearly three-year downturn due to the pandemic. This 3.7 km race takes place one to four times between May and October each year. Its objective is to build the esprit de corps in the candidates, to promote well-being and physical health. It brings together all the candidates present at the time of the race as well as the military personnel. This means that the race brings together more than 450 people for the same reason: health.

LCol Wong continues this activity, the second since taking office in June 2022. “Physical fitness is now one of the four pillars of basic training. The exercise has always been important, it is even more so today.” specifies the commandant. In addition, this major event is not intended only for candidates. Indeed, instructors and military personnel participate in the race, which demonstrates to candidates the importance of maintaining good health regardless of rank or trade. Note that this event is supervised by a PSP fitness team to prevent possible injuries.

Esprit de corps is the bond that is created between the candidates and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), but also between the candidates themselves. During training, candidates must support, encourage, and help each other, and this mutual support is essential for success. The Commandant's Run is therefore an excellent opportunity to solidify this bond, as it is conducive to reciprocal encouragement.

More Commandant’s Runs will follow throughout the year. Dates are yet to be set.