The Joy Run 50 is an annual trail race created to honour Jody Joy, who died by suicide in July 2019. His sister, Tanya Joy, started this run to keep his memory alive. Every year, runners from across the province and beyond gather for the Joy Run 50 to support the Joy For Jody Foundation and raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health. Participants tackle the East Coast Trail, uniting for a cause that promotes open conversations about these important issues.
The Joy Run 50 and Relay is an ultra-trail marathon held on the renowned East Coast Trail in Newfoundland, Canada, dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. This year’s run began on August 10 at Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s, NL, following a flat route before merging with the East Coast Trail. Runners experienced breathtaking landscapes along scenic paths such as Sugarloaf, Cobblers, Silver Mine Head, Father Troy’s, and Stiles Cove. These trail sections were connected by road segments, and the race concluded on the road after exiting the trail at Shoe Cove.
Spreading joy and connection, this challenging race covers rugged coastal terrain with stunning cliff views and crashing waves. Whether running the 50k solo or with a team of four, participants get to push their limits and finish with a full heart. The race culminates with participants joining their families and friends at the finish line bonding over food, drinks, and live music.
The 2024 edition of Joy Run 50 is a commemoration event for Jody Joy who died by suicide in July 2019 and is the 4th annual trail race. As participants embraced the East Coast trail, they joined a larger narrative that aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health. The Joy Run is not just a running event. It is a community and a family that values every life, sharing a common love for trail running, connecting with nature, and celebrating the kindness of the human spirit.
While Tanya Joy created this annual event to honour the memory of her brother, she had struggled with her mental health long before the loss of her brother. Tanya grew up with a parent who battled addiction and had to survive sexual assaults and the trauma of multiple miscarriages later in her life.
Tanya Joy founded Joy Run 50 in 2021. This race is about more than just finishing; it celebrates movement, nature, and the resilience of the human spirit. Her goal is to inspire others through trail running, helping them find joy, belonging, and gratitude in their lives.
“As I continue this journey, I embrace life’s challenges with resilience, believing in the healing power of nature and the strength we gain with each step. I am passionate about sharing my story to inspire others, especially around mental health, self-care, and resilience”, says Joy.
You can support Joy in her efforts by donating here.
Source: CBC
