Hundreds come out for the inaugural Golden Strides Walk on Sept. 20

Sunny South News Photo by Kristine Jean. GOLDEN STRIDES: More than 500 participants came out for the inaugural Golden Strides Walk on Sept. 20 in Coaldale. The three kilometer walk began at the Shift Community Recreation Centre and raised more than $75,000 for childhood cancer research at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

At total of 514 participants laced up to raise more than $75,000 for childhood cancer research in the inaugural Golden Strides Walk: Steps to End Childhood Cancer.  

The event was held on Sept. 20, at Coaldale’s Shift Community Recreation Centre, and saw participants raise thousands for childhood cancer research at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. Numbers exceeded organizer’s goal of 300 participants. 

“Over 500 walkers laced up and together we took more than two million steps for childhood cancer,” said event organizer Tristin Mercer. “I was overwhelmed. It was amazing to see the registration numbers climb when we exceeded our 300 (walkers) goal. We were so proud,” she added. “One person’s steps might feel small, but when we all move together, the impact is huge. That’s what this walk is all about – awareness, hope, and action, multiplied by every single person who shows up.”

The energy-filled day shared many memorable moments, including a crowd-pumping warm-up led by Olympian and homegrown hero Kacie Bosch, along with a kids’ zone that included face painting and balloon animals, as well as food trucks and music for everyone to enjoy. In addition, the Canadian Blood Services were on site during the event and there were 40 volunteers, 23 sponsors, and numerous prize donors, who all contributed to the event’s success.

 Mercer noted participants came from all over including Coaldale, Coalhurst, Lethbridge and even from outside of the province. 

“We have people from Kelowna and we have family and friends walking virtually in Australia,” she said. 

Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn took part in the inaugural walk with his longtime partner Martine, and said Golden Strides was about more than a three kilometre walk – it was about compassion, resilience, and hope.

“Every step we take is a reminder of the courage of children who are battling, the strength of the families who walk beside them, and the memory of precious children whose lives were taken far too soon,” said Van Rijn. “This walk was inspired by Kinley Mercer’s life. Though her time was far too short, her courage inspires us to keep walking forward with purpose.” 

Mercer noted contributions from the community, organizations and sponsors helped make a big impact for childhood cancer research and the first Gold Strides Walk a huge success. 

“Our title sponsor, the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, believed in us before this event had even begun,” said Mercer. “We are so grateful for their leadership and generosity, as well as the support of every sponsor, volunteer, and family that made today so special.”

Kinsmen Club of Coaldale president, Brad Calder, said they were more than happy to step up and noted that a lot of the club’s donations and funds goes towards helping kids. 

“When Tristan came to us it was an easy decision for us. We do Kids Cancer Care and Golden Strides Walk now, and we enjoy that,” said Calder. “A lot of us are fathers and it’s a great way for us to show our appreciation for everything.”

Scott MacNeil from Coalhurst was at the event with his wife and daughter. He works with Peter Mercer and was participating in the event to support the Mercer family. 

“I think it’s fantastic,” said MacNeil, noting the large turnout. “For an inaugural event it’s as good as it gets.”

Plans for the next Golden Strides Walk in 2026, are already underway with organizers aiming to grow the event and continue building momentum toward a future free of childhood cancer.