Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – On June 17th, Aaron Hendrikx, owner of BackRoads Brews + Shoes, and Daria Koscinski, executive director of the conservation charity Thames Talbot Land Trust, presented council with plans for a new trail-running event that organizers hope to launch this fall.
The proposed Talon Trail Races would take place on October 3 and introduce participants to several natural areas in North Middlesex, including Mystery Falls, Camp Sylvan and Joany’s Woods.
The event would feature four distances. The longest, a 26-kilometre race, would begin at Mystery Falls and finish at Joany’s Woods. Organizers are also planning 10-kilometre, 6.6-kilometre and 3.3-kilometre routes within Joany’s Woods, giving families, walkers and newer runners an opportunity to participate alongside more experienced trail runners.
Hendrikx told council that trail running has seen significant growth in recent years and said the event is intended to showcase local trails while bringing visitors to the area. The event is expected to attract between 100 and 150 participants in the first year, along with family members and spectators. Organizers hope the race will eventually become an annual event.
He said the shorter distances are designed to make the event accessible to a wider range of participants, while the longer course is aimed at experienced trail runners looking for a greater challenge.
Koscinski said the Thames Talbot Land Trust has protected natural areas across the region for more than 25 years and currently protects more than 1,000 acres in Middlesex County. Joany’s Woods, one of the organization’s largest nature reserves, covers 365 acres.
She said the event would help connect people with local natural spaces while raising awareness about conservation. Organizers noted that proceeds beyond event expenses would support conservation projects and help maintain public access to natural areas.
The project is being organized in partnership with several groups, including the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, Scouts Canada and Lambton Shores Nature Trails.
Organizers also highlighted the potential economic benefits for the area. They said runners and their families are expected to travel from outside the region, creating additional business for local restaurants, vendors and service providers.
West Williams Hall would serve as the event’s main hub. Participants would park at the hall and be transported to race locations by shuttle bus. Organizers estimate the event will require between 30 and 40 volunteers and support staff to run.
Some temporary road restrictions would be required for portions of the 26-kilometre route. Organizers said nearby residents and landowners would receive advance notice before the event, and road restrictions would be removed as runners move through the course.
