Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
If you’re looking to enjoy one of the oldest forms of sport, improve your health, breathing and burn some spare calories, sign up for this year’s Miserable Miles.
The annual contest started in 2016 and has been a very popular addition to the town of Peace River ever since.
Organizer Nadine Kacho says they’ve had strong support ever since the inception of the event, including a 100-participant virtual event in 2021 when the race could not be held due to COVID-19.
“The race starts and finishes at the Misery Mountain Ski Chalet,” explains Kacho, adding that the course is 6.2 km long with obstacles to experience.
“The race is meant to be attainable for all fitness levels. You can run, walk or crawl. Our oldest participant Is 80 years old this year.”
The race will be held on Sept. 7, with registrations being accepted until Sept. 2.
Kacho says that people will still be able to register at packet pickup and on the morning of the race, but she says there may not be any racer swag left if people don’t register early.
“The Miserable Miles event is more than just a fitness challenge, it’s a celebration of healthy living and community spirit,” she says.
“Participants should sign up because it provides an unparalleled atmosphere that combines the thrill of pushing your limits with the joy of communal support.”
Kacho explains that Early Bird Registration was $55, but Regular Registration is now $65, and she says free T-Shirts are included with registration until the inventory runs out.
On the morning of the run, race briefing will be at 9:25 am with the first heat running at 10 am.
“The fee for participating in Miserable Miles primarily covers operational costs, including event logistics and organization,” she notes. “We are fortunate to have a fantastic group of sponsors whose support helps offset most of these expenses, allowing us to direct a significant portion of the participant fees back into the community.”
Kacho says in the past they donated $11,000 to mental health initiatives thanks to the support of participants.
This year’s extra funds will also find a home, a home she says the team will announce after the event.
“The Peace River Valley has is one of the most beautiful sights to see, and the Miserable Miles course does not disappoint when it comes to displaying some of those views,” Kacho says.
“Plus, the community comes together to throw one heck of a party.”
She says the event will provide a unique experience, with a sense of community and comradery, and it will help you push your limits with a group of like-minded individuals.
Obstacles in the race this year will include tire flips, hill climbs, wall climbs (with cheater steps), sand bag carry, log carry, Quint steps, Monkey Bars, Army Crawl, balance beams, and the crowd pleaser Slip & Slide.
“You should have a base level of fitness, walking should not be a challenge if you are going to tackle the course,” she says.
“That being said if you decide somewhere on the trail that you have had enough, there are course Marshalls that can bring you down the hill on a side by side.”
This year’s event will feature a few local collaborations, including Miserable Miles Unleashed with the Peace Regional SPCA.
“As well we have really kicked up our collaboration with Peace River Brewing,” Kacho says.
“We have some awesome new Miserable Miles Beer Can labels that we will be releasing at Peace River Brewing on Aug 29 4-8 pm at that time we will also have a Late Bird Registration.”
Check in for the racers and packet pick up will be at the Peace River brewery on Sept. 6 from 5 pm until 8 pm.
“And then there is Misery After Hours,” she says. “We are moving the Party from the Ski Hill to the Brewery, from 6-9 pm. There will be Miserable food special, discounts on food and beverage for participants and volunteers who wear their 2024 Miserable Miles T-Shirts, Prizes, Live music and More.”
Miserable Miles Organizers include Kacho, Shanelle Van Oort and Rylee Armstrong. Trail Bosses include Danny Van Oort and Lee Ruthven, and the treasurer is Debbie Thompson.
If you’d like to register for the event, please visit .
“We can’t wait to see everyone’s Miserable Smiles out on the trails,” Kacho concludes.