Brampton, ON – In a landmark celebration of community spirit and social responsibility, Inspirational Steps hosted the Third Annual BVD Brampton Half Marathon on Sunday, May 25 at Chinguacousy Park. The event brought together over 1,250 runners and attracted more than 1,200 spectators, creating a powerful atmosphere of encouragement and unity.
Founded as a joint initiative by six respected social service organizations—Guru Gobind Singh Children Foundation, Enlight Kids, Pingalwara, Sahaita, Drug Awareness Society, and Tarksheel Society—the marathon blends fitness with a strong commitment to volunteerism and social impact.
While this is the third year of the event under the unified Inspirational Steps banner, the participating organizations have been individually hosting community runs and walks for many years prior. Their longstanding commitment to public health, youth education, senior care, and social empowerment laid the foundation for what has now become one of the region’s most meaningful collective events.
More Than a Race — A Purpose-Driven Platform
The BVD Brampton Half Marathon promotes physical well-being while raising awareness and support for vital causes including children’s education, elder care, Indigenous youth scholarships, drug prevention, and challenging harmful superstitions.
“This event is more than a finish line—it’s a starting point for healthier habits and stronger communities,” said one of the organizers.
Inclusive, Accessible, and Inspiring
This year’s marathon featured a wide range of participants, including athletes with special needs—such as wheelchair users and visually impaired runners supported by guides—demonstrating a deep commitment to inclusion and accessibility.
Race categories included:
- 21 km Half Marathon: ~100 runners
- 10 km Race: ~220 runners
- 5 km Race: ~650 runners
- 1 km Walk/Run (Seniors & Children): ~180 participants
- 400 m Dash (Toddlers): ~100 children
Large group participation came from organizations including the Toronto Pearson Airport Runners Club, Ontario Khalsa Darbar Punjabi School, Seniors Association of Brampton, Brampton Banders, and Run for Seniors.
Top Finishers
Cash prizes were awarded by the Ontario Khalsa Darbar Sports and Cultural Club:
- 21 km Men: Christopher Julian – 1:32:04
- 21 km Women: Raakhi Sabhaya – 1:35:25
- 10 km Men: Ryan Aujla & Shiv Sharma – 43:20
- 10 km Women: Sue Horner – 54:42
- 5 km Men: Baaj Singh – 19:23
- 5 km Women: Simran Chinna – 24:27
Powered by Volunteers and Community Leaders
More than 150 volunteers helped ensure a seamless and welcoming experience for all attendees. The event was strongly supported by Mayor Patrick Brown, Deputy Mayor Harkirat Singh, Brampton City Council members, city staff, and Peel Regional Police.
BVD Group has remained the proud title sponsor since the event’s inception. This year’s sponsors also included Sukh Bhaura (Remax President Realty) and Paul Bains (Custom Wear Screen Printing). Community leader Sardar Chanvir Singh Dhillon once again participated with his 25-member team.
Celebration and Community Unity
Runners and guests enjoyed fruit and water stations, free pizza provided by Mr. Singh’s Pizza, and a traditional langar(community meal) organized by Ontario Khalsa Darbar Gurdwara Sahib (Dixie Road).
“This event is about more than running—it’s about health, hope, and helping others,” said one volunteer.
With nearly 3,000 people participating, the BVD Brampton Half Marathon has become a defining annual event where movement meets mission, and where every step supports a stronger, healthier community.
