Wreck Beach celebrates 19th annual Bare Buns Run this Sunday

If you've ever had the urge to let it all hang out while you jog along the beach, here’s your chance.

Wreck Beach Preservation Society's (WBPS) annual Bare Buns Run has been held every year since 1997. The event is an officially timed five-kilometre walk and run along the shoreline at everyone's favourite clothing-optional beach, and will raise money for the preservation group, which was first registered in 1988 and has since maintained its goal of keeping Wreck Beach looking as natural as possible. In addition to keeping the beach clean, the society also works to promote the healthy and positive benefits of social nudism.

Runners are encouraged to participate in the nude, but may choose to run "shy" (clothed) or semi-clothed. Certificates will be awarded to the oldest and youngest participants, as well as the runner with the best-decorated buns, and the most outrageous hat. The top three male and female runners in eight different age groups will be awarded with a medal. Walkers are also encouraged to participate in their very own "slowpoke" category.

So how do volunteers manage to get all of the necessary equipment—tents, generators, and more—down the set of 500 stairs from Marine Drive? In the past, everything has been brought to the beach by boat, but according to WBPS chair Judy Williams, that won't be happening this year. 

"Everything that could go wrong with this event has gone wrong in the past, but it always works out," Williams said during a phone interview with the Straight earlier today. 

Williams has been the run's "buns master" since it first began in 1997, and she is most looking forward to the awards ceremony following the run. The fastest male and female runners will be awarded a $250 gift certificate for longtime run sponsor Rackets and Runners. Free sunscreen will also be on hand for participants. (Don't want to burn those sensitive areas!)

Williams said 120 runners took part in last year's race, and this year, WBPS is hoping for at least 200 participants. This is the second of three annual fundraisers held by the society. 

The run is dedicated to the memory of actor, comic, and Wreck Beach enthusiast Paddy White, who was "tireless in his fundraising" for WBPS. He was killed in an accident 18 years ago.

"He was always relentlessly after people to donate. Through the run, we're able to fundraise and put the word out to the world about what naturalism is all about," said Williams.

Audience members are kindly asked to avoid taking photographs during the duration of the race. Runners will wear wristbands indicating whether or not they are okay with having their picture taken.

On-site registration will begin at 9 a.m. on Sunday (August 16), with the run beginning around noon.

For more information, visit the WBPS website.