When Sherwood Park, Alta.’s Laura Sherrer-Townsend first laced up her running shoes 19 years ago, with the goal of staying active after having triplets, she had no idea it would spark an epic, long-distance adventure. What started as a post-pregnancy hobby quickly evolved into a passion for the sport and the running community. Soon, Sherrer-Townsend was tackling ultra-distance events and setting an ambitious goal: to complete 50 ultras before her 50th birthday, while championing awareness and raising funds for sexual violence prevention.
Running for a personal cause
In 2018, Sherrer-Townsend created and kicked off the first edition of Survivorfest, dubbed “a celebration of strength, sacrifice and survival” in Edmonton. The race raises funds for Saffron Centre, a non-profit organization based in Sherwood Park, Alta., that supports those affected by sexual violence; as a survivor herself, Laura Sherrer-Townsend says that her commitment to preventing sexual violence is the main reason she started the event. Her 50 before 50 challenge was also driven by a desire to support Saffron Centre, with raised funds directed toward the Centre’s educational program, held in local schools. Inspired by Calgary ultrarunner Martin Parnell, who completed 250 marathons in one year, Sherrer-Townsend hopes to make a difference. “I hope what happened to me can be prevented from happening to other children,” she explains.
Rallying from setbacks for a full-circle finish
Sherrer-Townsend’s journey wasn’t without a few hurdles. In 2018, a sprained ankle led to a tough bout with plantar fasciitis, forcing her to modify her training with hiking and water running. COVID-19 also threw her race plans for a loop, but she adapted, with virtual ultras helping her complete more races that year than in any other. Sherrer-Townsend had initially chosen Lost Soul Ultra, held in Lethbridge, Alta., to be her 50 before 50 finale, but record-breaking temperatures forced her to drop out of the race.
When she completed her goal in late September at River’s Edge Ultra, held in Devon, Alta., Sherrer-Townsend says she felt a lot of relief. “It ended up being perfect as it was close to home. Lots of running friends and supporters were at the finish line,” she said, adding that she was able to run with a friend who was also completing his 50th ultramarathon, his before 70.
A force in the community
Known to be a cheerleader to all those around her, Sherrer-Townsend’s contagious enthusiasm leaves an impact. Canadian ultrarunning star Priscilla Forgie met Sherrer-Townsend through the Edmonton trail running community. “If you’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with Laura you know her infectious laugh and vibrant energy,” Forgie told Canadian Running. “She is truly a light and the definition of what community is all about.”
Dean Johnson, a Lethbridge-based running coach and race director of Lost Soul Ultra, echoed Forgie’s thoughts. “When Laura is at a race as a runner or volunteer (she likely volunteers more than she races), there is a 30m radius aura/vibe around her. It does not matter how tired she is; she radiates excitement, happiness, and gratitude,” he said, adding: “She also gives the BEST hugs.”
What’s next for Sherrer-Townsend? Well, she’s already looking ahead to her next challenge—60 mountain summits before she’s 60.
