The 2025 Nature’s Emporium Run for Southlake was the most successful event in its 23-year history. A record 1668 people participated in the 5km run along Davis Drive in Newmarket, Ontario, raising over $460,000 to support important needs at Southlake Hospital.

The community event also helped the Town of Newmarket claim the Community Spirit Award, which represents participation by more than 60 percent of council members and the largest per capita citizen registration. The $459,294.68 of the projected $500,000 raised so far will help meet critical needs at Southlake. The funds will be used to buy essential day-to-day equipment for patient comfort and care, as well as advanced technology for healthcare workers to provide top-quality care to patients and their families.

The Nature’s Emporium Run for Southlake began as the Bob Hartwell Challenge in 2002, created to honour Bob Hartwell, a local business leader, community supporter, and runner who made a big difference in people’s lives. Today, the event continues his legacy by raising important funds for Southlake Hospital, helping doctors and nurses provide the best care for patients close to home. It has grown into Southlake’s biggest community fundraiser, with a 5 KM run/walk along Davis Drive in Newmarket. People from York Region, South Simcoe, and beyond join in, from ages three to eighty, collecting donations to support excellent, compassionate care for their families, friends, and neighbours.

Source: NewmarketToday