8 Runners, 8 Days, 800 Kms
Thank you to everyone for the incredible donations to the 2024 Wounded Warrior Run BC. The event was a stellar success and the funds are already being utilized on the Island to deliver Wounded Warriors Canada Programs.
Run – February 23 – March 2, 2025
One-Day Sooke to Sidney Run – February 2, 2025
ABOUT THE RUN
The Wounded Warrior Run BC, initiated in 2013 by two Canadian Armed Forces members, aims to raise funds and awareness for Wounded Warriors Canada. Over the years, this run has grown into an annual event. A dedicated team of eight runners takes on a relay-style challenge, traversing the entire length of Vancouver Island in eight consecutive days, covering a remarkable 800 kilometers.
2025 TEAM – RUNNERS
JZ – Run Director
I have served with the Canadian Armed Forces for over 25 years as a Cadet Instructor Cadre Officer. In the past two years, I have taken on the role as the Public Affairs Officer at the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific). I am very passionate about volunteering and supporting our uniformed personnel that help keep our communities safe every day. It has been an honour to act as the Director for the Wounded Warrior Run BC since 2018 and I am always eager to help as many people as possible.
JZ – Run Director
I have served with the Canadian Armed Forces for over 25 years as a Cadet Instructor Cadre Officer. In the past two years, I have taken on the role as the Public Affairs Officer at the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific). I am very passionate about volunteering and supporting our uniformed personnel that help keep our communities safe every day. It has been an honour to act as the Director for the Wounded Warrior Run BC since 2018 and I am always eager to help as many people as possible.
Nathalie Butler, Head Runner
I have served with the Canadian Armed Forces for 6 years as a Dental Officer. This is my second year running for Wounded Warriors. My father, who has served in the Royal Canadian Navy for over 40 years, encouraged me to get involved and use my passion for running towards a great cause.
As an active military member with family and friends who also serve, I have witnessed the impact PTSD and operational stress injuries have on Canadian Forces members, first responders, and their families.
Nathalie Butler, Head Runner
I have served with the Canadian Armed Forces for 6 years as a Dental Officer. This is my second year running for Wounded Warriors. My father, who has served in the Royal Canadian Navy for over 40 years, encouraged me to get involved and use my passion for running towards a great cause.
As an active military member with family and friends who also serve, I have witnessed the impact PTSD and operational stress injuries have on Canadian Forces members, first responders, and their families.
Chris Stanger, Runner
I am the Chief Utility Operator for the Town of Qualicum Beach. My work primarily revolves around water and fire services, with a focus on ensuring high-quality drinking water and a safe sanitary systems.
In my spare time, I volunteer with two fire departments: Qualicum Beach Fire Rescue and Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department. My passion for these fields traces back to my teenage years, including my experience with Scottish Water and the Scottish Fire and Rescue
Chris Stanger, Runner
I am the Chief Utility Operator for the Town of Qualicum Beach. My work primarily revolves around water and fire services, with a focus on ensuring high-quality drinking water and a safe sanitary systems.
In my spare time, I volunteer with two fire departments: Qualicum Beach Fire Rescue and Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department. My passion for these fields traces back to my teenage years, including my experience with Scottish Water and the Scottish Fire and Rescue
Yanna Hempler, Runner
I have been running long distances for charities that are near and dear to her heart for the past decade. Individually, I have raised over $100,000 for other local charities and I am very excited to be a part of the 2024 edition of the Wounded Warrior Run BC.
I spent 3 years as a reserve logistics officer at 39 SVC BN and am currently a supply chain specialist for an aircraft manufacturing company. I am most known for running 30 marathons in 30 days, 12 marathons in 12 days, 10 marathons in 10 days, as well as completing a number of local, national and international marathons.
Yanna Hempler, Runner
I have been running long distances for charities that are near and dear to her heart for the past decade. Individually, I have raised over $100,000 for other local charities and I am very excited to be a part of the 2024 edition of the Wounded Warrior Run BC.
I spent 3 years as a reserve logistics officer at 39 SVC BN and am currently a supply chain specialist for an aircraft manufacturing company. I am most known for running 30 marathons in 30 days, 12 marathons in 12 days, 10 marathons in 10 days, as well as completing a number of local, national and international marathons.
Rob Brennan, Runner
I am a 17 year veteran with the RCMP. Over the course of my career, I have served in Prince George, Port Hardy, Haida Gwaii and the Comox Valley. The vast majority of my service has been on the street, policing on the front lines shoulder to shoulder with amazing men and women who serve their communities every single day, often under the most difficult of circumstances.
Rob Brennan, Runner
I am a 17 year veteran with the RCMP. Over the course of my career, I have served in Prince George, Port Hardy, Haida Gwaii and the Comox Valley. The vast majority of my service has been on the street, policing on the front lines shoulder to shoulder with amazing men and women who serve their communities every single day, often under the most difficult of circumstances.
Jason Laidman, Runner
I have been a Victoria Police member since 2001, currently serving as the Deputy Chief, and have 30 years of service overall. I have experience working on seconded police units including major crime, auto theft, records management project, and the Regional Domestic Violence Unit; I am a firm believer in collaboration, inter-agency cooperation, and wellbeing.
I am committed to working with community and police partners and has been an active member of numerous local Boards and Committees including the Boys and Girls Club of South Vancouver Island, Police Based Victim Services of BC, and the VicPD Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee.
Dan Bodden – Founding Runner
I am a co-founder of the WWRBC and thrilled to return as part of the run team in 2024.
As life-long endurance athlete, I wanted to showcase not only the physical but mental benefits of regular exercise. Each run can be it’s own therapy session. Talking is often the first step in removing the social stigma around mental health. Nothing to be ashamed of, no need to hide.
I am a serving CAF member in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Dan Bodden – Founding Runner
I am a co-founder of the WWRBC and thrilled to return as part of the run team in 2024.
As life-long endurance athlete, I wanted to showcase not only the physical but mental benefits of regular exercise. Each run can be it’s own therapy session. Talking is often the first step in removing the social stigma around mental health. Nothing to be ashamed of, no need to hide.
I am a serving CAF member in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
SUPPORT TEAM
Aggie Pringle
I have been a paramedic throughout BC since 1992, most recently serving in Sayward. I come from a family that has members from each generation proudly serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Remember the Fallen and helping the living are causes that are closest to my heart. Of my three grown children, one is becoming a first responder, and one is pursuing a career in the Canadian Armed Forces. I am a strong advocate for helping others and advancing mental health resources to fellow paramedics.
John Penner
I have recently retired after a 36 year career in the Royal Canadian Navy. I am a professional photographer with a passion for supporting causes which benefit Canadian Veterans and have been with the run from the beginning. Fortunate not to have suffered with operational stress injuries in my military career, I feel it is important to help those who have.
John Penner
I have recently retired after a 36 year career in the Royal Canadian Navy. I am a professional photographer with a passion for supporting causes which benefit Canadian Veterans and have been with the run from the beginning. Fortunate not to have suffered with operational stress injuries in my military career, I feel it is important to help those who have.
Raymond Hall
Raymond Hall
Lane Douglas-Hunt
I have been a first responder for 16 years and have seen firsthand the toll that this noble and honorable field can take on my peers. Through my work with my agency’s Peer Support Team and the Critical Incident Stress Management Team, I cultivated a working relationship with Wounded Warriors Canada. After now many years of experience in this field, there is no doubt in my mind that WWC is the leader in mental health care as well as proactive mental resiliency training for first responders. I am beyond honored to be a small part of their mission.
Lane Douglas-Hunt
I have been a first responder for 16 years and have seen firsthand the toll that this noble and honorable field can take on my peers. Through my work with my agency’s Peer Support Team and the Critical Incident Stress Management Team, I cultivated a working relationship with Wounded Warriors Canada. After now many years of experience in this field, there is no doubt in my mind that WWC is the leader in mental health care as well as proactive mental resiliency training for first responders. I am beyond honored to be a small part of their mission.
Matt Carlson
Matt Carlson has proudly been with the Wounded Warriors Run BC Team since 2018 as a Head Runner (2018-2020) and Runner (2022-2023). This year in 2024, Matt will be assisting the team as the Finish Line Coordinator at Market Square in Victoria. Matt currently works with CFB Esquimalt Base Public Affairs as a Project Officer and is very excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the mission for yet another year. Matt is honoured to be a Wounded Warriors Canada Ambassador, enjoys performing music with his band and especially loves competing in Half Marathon and middle distance running competitions.
Matt Carlson
Matt Carlson has proudly been with the Wounded Warriors Run BC Team since 2018 as a Head Runner (2018-2020) and Runner (2022-2023). This year in 2024, Matt will be assisting the team as the Finish Line Coordinator at Market Square in Victoria. Matt currently works with CFB Esquimalt Base Public Affairs as a Project Officer and is very excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the mission for yet another year. Matt is honoured to be a Wounded Warriors Canada Ambassador, enjoys performing music with his band and especially loves competing in Half Marathon and middle distance running competitions.
Susan Marcotte
Married to Stéphane Marcotte and dog Mum to service dogs Sarge Marcotte and now Bunker Marcotte. Susan has been part of the WWRBC planning committee and support team since year 2. She has participated in many programs provided by Wounded Warriors Canada and feels the need to give back. Susan stays helpful in local fundraising events for the run and continues to promote WWC programs. Susan coordinates with the Lions Club on Vancouver Island to liaise between Lions Club and Wounded Warrior Run BC team.
Susan Marcotte
Married to Stéphane Marcotte and dog Mum to service dogs Sarge Marcotte and now Bunker Marcotte. Susan has been part of the WWRBC planning committee and support team since year 2. She has participated in many programs provided by Wounded Warriors Canada and feels the need to give back. Susan stays helpful in local fundraising events for the run and continues to promote WWC programs. Susan coordinates with the Lions Club on Vancouver Island to liaise between Lions Club and Wounded Warrior Run BC team.
Stephane Marcotte
Stephane is a Submarine veteran who retired in December 2014 after spending 28 years in the Royal Canadian Navy. Diagnosed with PTSD in 2010 and medically released in 2014, he has worked very hard to get his life back. Having participated in many of the Wounded Warriors Canada programs, he works at volunteering to give back. Stephane has been involved with WWRBC since year 2. He continues to help with some of the Digital Marketing and local events with his wife Susan, his now-retired service dog, Sarge and new service dog, Bunker.
Stephane Marcotte
Stephane is a Submarine veteran who retired in December 2014 after spending 28 years in the Royal Canadian Navy. Diagnosed with PTSD in 2010 and medically released in 2014, he has worked very hard to get his life back. Having participated in many of the Wounded Warriors Canada programs, he works at volunteering to give back. Stephane has been involved with WWRBC since year 2. He continues to help with some of the Digital Marketing and local events with his wife Susan, his now-retired service dog, Sarge and new service dog, Bunker.
ALUMNI TEAM
Maria Marciano
I am an eight-year veteran with the RCMP in Port Alberni. I am a mental wellness proponent; striving to make mental health a priority at the detachment by working as the Co-Chair for the Detachment Wellness Committee and in the RCMP as a whole by pushing for changes and advocating for resources.
I joined the team in 2020 as a runner and has now become part of the support team.
Maria Marciano
I am an eight-year veteran with the RCMP in Port Alberni. I am a mental wellness proponent; striving to make mental health a priority at the detachment by working as the Co-Chair for the Detachment Wellness Committee and in the RCMP as a whole by pushing for changes and advocating for resources.
I joined the team in 2020 as a runner and has now become part of the support team.
Lori Timpson – Support Team
My name is Lori Timpson and I am in my 22nd year of policing. I am a member of the Saanich Police Department and since 2019 I have been seconded to the Vancouver Integrated Major Crime Unit where I investigate homicides on Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the Sunshine Coast.
I became a member of the Wounded Warrior Run BC Team in 2019 as one of the runners. Since then I remain on the team as a relief runner and the volunteer EMS Coordinator (coordinating escorts for our Team from Port Hardy to Victoria)
Lori Timpson – Support Team
My name is Lori Timpson and I am in my 22nd year of policing. I am a member of the Saanich Police Department and since 2019 I have been seconded to the Vancouver Integrated Major Crime Unit where I investigate homicides on Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the Sunshine Coast.
I became a member of the Wounded Warrior Run BC Team in 2019 as one of the runners. Since then I remain on the team as a relief runner and the volunteer EMS Coordinator (coordinating escorts for our Team from Port Hardy to Victoria)
Daryl Baswick, Runner
Is a member of the Victoria Police Department. Much of his career has been spent in Major Crime, including the last 4 years investigating homicides on Vancouver Island. Daryl has witnessed the affect PTSD has had on friends and collegues in law enforcement and the emergency services. A passionate runner, Daryl believes in the power of running to heal.
Daryl has written extensively about policing and running, with articles published in the Victoria Times Colonist, Globe and Mail and Canadian Running magazine. Daryl and his wife and daughter live in the Cowichan Valley.
FAQs
Q. How do we get in touch with the team?
A. Email Jacqueline@woundedwarriors.ca or call 250-661-4333.
Q. Am I able to run with the team during the event?
A. If you are interested in applying for a position on the team or to join the team in a smaller portion of the run, please contact jacqueline@woundedwarriors.ca. Please note that this is not on open running event and strict timings are kept to ensure our stops are on time.
Q. How much of the funds donated go to communities on Vancouver Island?
A. 100% of the funds donated from Vancouver Island stay on Vancouver Island. In fact, any money donated on the island actually comes back 10 fold from the rest of Canada to provide life changing programs on the island.
Sponsors
