A Call to Action from the Running Community

Margo Soucy, president of the Athletics NorthEAST running club, is stepping up to address an alarming trend: increasingly aggressive driving in the metro area. Following a provincial marathon organized by her club, Margo witnessed firsthand the reckless behavior of some motorists.

The Marathon Incident: An Eye-Opening Experience

During the marathon, which wound through city streets with the help of 150 dedicated traffic marshals, volunteers were taken aback by the level of hostility displayed by certain drivers. While Margo noted that 95% of drivers showed respect and courtesy, the remaining few engaged in dangerous behaviors that included ignoring traffic marshals' directions and speeding through barriers.

A Personal Close Call

Margo’s concerns are further fueled by a terrifying experience involving her son. While participating in a regular running group, they encountered a perilous situation at a crosswalk. As they crossed, a driver approached, seemingly indifferent to the stop sign. Margo's quick reflexes and urgent shout prompted her son to sprint to safety, narrowly avoiding disaster.

Time for Change

As running enthusiasts take to the streets, Margo’s message is clear: community awareness and respect on the road are paramount. The rising instances of aggressive driving not only threaten the safety of runners but challenge the very fabric of our shared public spaces. It’s time for drivers to prioritize the safety of all road users, especially those vulnerable on foot.