Another guest post:
James Lee – 19 Wing Team Captain for the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon 2026
I am a military member and got posted to 19 Wing Comox 2018. I discovered Thursday Night Trails (TNT) and joined CVRR in 2018. Running has been part of my lifestyle more than 20 years – completing a few marathons and countless half marathon races over the course of 20 plus years.
On March 22, 2026, I led the 19 Wing Comox Team as the team captain to take on the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon. The participating members demonstrated teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to personal fitness and operational readiness. In total, 55 members registered, with 45 able to compete on race day due to tasking, deployments, postings, and injuries. A distinctive seven-member rucksack group drew strong public attention. Military participation resonated deeply with runners and spectators alike. Many offered words of appreciation: “Thank you for your service.” Competitive performances stood out, including Cpl Adam Welsh and MCpl Pomarenski, who posted impressive times of 1:16 and 1:21 respectively.
Just as inspiring were first‑time half‑marathon runners. This is a demonstration of their courage and grit, especially for those who raced a half marathon for the first time. The entire team had worked hard throughout their training since December last year and gave everything they had to the 21km course. Our rucksack group was shining from the start line to the finish.
I am part of the rucksack group, marching & running with the 35-pound weight on the back for the entire race. Everyone on this group, except me, had blistered on their foot or toe nails blackened – I would say it was a badge of grit and honor! People along the way just loved seeing our members in full military gear in a formation all the way down and back. It was a hard day, but a great day in the end for all the participating military members.
I am so grateful for CVRR members and all those who led, organized, volunteered for the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon.
Photo 1: LV; Photos 2-5 S1 Brendan Gibson, Canadian Armed Forces Photo