Frequently Asked Questions (All Sites): 

1.      Who can participate in the Run for Rural Medicine (RFRM)? 

Everyone! This event is open to everyone of all levels. You can walk, jog, run, or ride your bike (Vancouver) through these courses. All you have to do is register for the event on the Hope Air website.

2.      Do I need to register?

Yes! Registration is required. Please register here. You can register as an individual or as part of a team.

3.      What is the virtual event? 

The virtual RFRM event is taking place from March 17 2025 to April 12 2025 (4 weeks prior to the in-person event). Participants are encouraged to participate in our weekly challenges and submit proof of participation to be entered into a draw for a weekly prize. You can run the race at your own pace and location, while still supporting the cause. To participate in the virtual event, register on the Hope Air website. 

4.      Can I participate in both the virtual and in-person event? 

Absolutely! If you register for the in-person event, you are eligible to participate in the challenge of the virtual event. You can also participate in just the virtual event. 

5.      What prizes are available for challenges? 

You will be entered into a weekly draw for each challenge that you participate in. The top fundraiser of the entire event will also receive airline tickets from Pacific Coastal. Prizes are still being confirmed, though in the past our sponsors have included Lululemon, On Running, Helijet, West Jet, Arcteryx. 

6.      When will the winners be announced for the challenges?

Winners will be announced during the in-person events. We will also contact you directly if you are a winner. 

7.      How will I receive my prize? How will I receive my merchandise?

We will contact you directly if you are a winner and will arrange delivery of your prize or merchandise. If you are attending a local in-person event, we may be able to give it to you then, otherwise we will arrange for delivery a few days after the event. You do not have to pay for shipping.

8.      Is there a time limit for completing the course? 

No time limit, all levels are welcome, we will be there to cheer on every last participant! If you cannot complete the course for any reason, that is also perfectly fine and there is no need to inform our volunteers. 

9.      Will I have my photos taken during this event? Where will they be found?

Photos will be taken periodically and will be posted to the RFRM Facebook page and some may be posted to the Instagram page. Photos may also be used in the future for promotional material. If you do not want to have your photo taken, please contact RFRM and we will work with you to find a solution. 

10. Who organizes RFRM?

RFRM is an initiative developed by UBC medical students across the province in Vancouver, Victoria, Prince George, and Kelowna. RFRM has been ongoing for 21 years. Our funds raised to go Hope Air, a registered national charity, that provides complimentary travel and accommodation for Canadians who must travel within Canada to access healthcare far from home and cannot afford associated costs. Last year, the event raised $13,048.98 for individuals in financial need.

11.  Will there be a package to pick up or chip timing?

No, there is no bib or race package that participants need to pick up. The race will not be formally timed.

12. How can I support the event if I can't run or volunteer?

If you're unable to run or volunteer, you can still support the event by making a donation here to the fundraiser. Many participants also set up fundraising pages to raise money for the cause.

FAQs (Vancouver):

1. When and where does the run take place?

The race will take place on April 6th 2025 at 9:30AM on UBC Vancouver Campus. Please arrive 30 mins before the race starts.

9:00AM - Participant and Guest Arrival

9:20AM - Opening Ceremony

9:30AM - Race Begins

2. What race distances are available?

The Run for Rural Medicine in Vancouver offers multiple race options, including a 5K and a 10K run as well as a 10K ride. 

6. Is the Run for Rural Medicine accessible for all abilities?

The event is designed to be inclusive, with options for competitive runners, joggers, walkers, and families. The Vancouver course is wheelchair accessible, and there are volunteers and support staff available along the route to assist.

7. Can I volunteer for the Run for Rural Medicine?

Absolutely! The event relies on volunteers to help with race-day activities such as registration, course marshaling, water stations, and more. Volunteers are a crucial part of making the event a success, and it's a great way to contribute to the cause if you're not participating as a runner. Please contact Lucas Rempel (778-960-1167) with your availability.

9. What should I bring on race day?

On race day, make sure to bring:

• Comfortable running shoes and clothing
• Water or hydration (although water stations will be available)
• A positive attitude!

10. What is the best way to get to the race?

We recommend using public transport as busses come right to UBC campus, although there is also parking close to the race start & finish on the campus (Find Parking | UBC Parking).

11. Are there washrooms?

Yes, there will be access to washrooms on site.

Other questions? Please contact us at [email protected]

FAQs Kelowna

1.  When is the event?

It will be held at 9am on Saturday, April 12th 2025.

2. Where is the event?

Start and end line: Reichwald Health Science (RHS) building at UBCO

Address: 1088 Discovery Avenue, Kelowna, BC 

3. How long is the run? Can I walk?

The run is a 5km out and back course that begins at the RHS building on UBCO campus and goes through the campus and onto the Quail Flume trail. You can absolutely walk – all levels welcome!

4. Is there parking?

Paid parking is in effect at all times - see UBCO parking services website for info. We recommend parking in S lot or Gym parking to be close to the start/end line.

https://parking.ok.ubc.ca/find-parking/

5. Will there be washrooms available?

Runners and spectators may use the facilities in the RHS building.

6. Will there be prizes and/or awards?

Yes! Stay tuned.

7. Is there a gear check or place to store my personal items?

No, please leave valuables at home and only come in what you’re prepared to wear running or feel comfortable leaving unattended.

FAQs Prince George

1. Where is the run taking place?

The run is a 5k loop, starting at the UNBC greenway trails parking lot and through the Forests of the World trails behind UNBC.

2. Is there parking available?

There is parking at the start of the trail, but it is limited. Additional parking is available at the UNBC parking lots or the Northern Sports Centre (*note that this is paid parking).

3. When does the run start?

The run will begin at 9:00am, we suggest showing up at ~8-8:30am to allow for ample time to sign-in, use the washroom, and warm-up. 

4. Are there bathrooms on site?

There are bathrooms located at UNBC and the Northern Sports Centre as well as a washroom located about halfway (~2.5k) through the course.

5. Is registration required?

Yes!

7. Are there snacks/beverages at the run?

Yes! Thanks to our generous sponsors we will have some snacks by donation set up in the parking lot at the run start/finish!

8. What are the trail conditions?

We are hopeful that the ice and snow will melt by run day but there might be some residual snow/ice patches. It will also most likely be muddy. 

9. Are headphones allowed on course?

No. As bears and other wildlife frequent this area, we discourage headphone use during the run to ensure safety.

10. Can I bring my kids?

Yes! This event is open to all ages, just be aware that it is a trail run so there are roots and uneven spots. 

11. Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but please ensure it is on a lease and that it is tame to ensure safety for participants.

FAQs Victoria

1.      What is the race start time?

The start time is 9am.

2.      Is there parking?

Parking is available and is free.

3.      Will there be snacks/drinks?

We will have food and drink at our start/finish line. 

4.      Are there washrooms available?

Washrooms are available at the start/finish line as well as a few along the course.

5.      Where is the run?

The run will occur on a trail. It is mostly flat, but it can get muddy if there is recent rain!

Route - Prince George

Route - Kelowna

Route - Vancouver (X2 5km, X4 10km)

Route - Victoria

About Hope Air

All too often, barriers of cost and distance prevent patients from getting specialized medical care in expensive cities far from home. But this barrier must be overcome; delays in treatment can cause unnecessary pain, untreated disease and permanent disability.

Hope Air is Canada's only national charity providing free travel and accommodations for Canadians in financial need who must access specialized medical care far from home.

In 1986, our first flight enabled a patient to travel for cancer treatment. Since then, Hope Air has arranged more than 155,000 travel arrangements for patients of any age, with any illness that is covered by the patients’ provincial health plans.

Many illnesses require many appointments and return visits. This means time off work for income-earners, time off school for children and youth, money spent on hotels and travel expenses, and time away from family, friends and communities.

Hope Air is a unique and essential part of our Canadian healthcare system. Without the access Hope Air provides, our national system of universal healthcare coverage would fall short of its promise.

For more information visit: https://hopeair.ca/