Bay Roberts will mark the final leg of a province-wide charity relay on July 15, 2026, as sailors from HMCS St. John’s run into town to wrap up their annual Run The Rock fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Canada.
The relay covers over 900 kilometres and started on July 2 in Port aux Basques. Crew members have been taking turns running daily stages through communities such as Stephenville, Corner Brook, Gander and Clarenville, raising money along the way for critically ill children.
For more than 30 years, the ship’s company has partnered with the children’s charity, bringing in over $2 million to grant wishes for Newfoundland and Labrador kids. Right now, more than 35 children in the province are waiting for their wish. Last year’s run raised approximately $200,000 for the cause.
Organizers say every donation counts, no matter how small, and are calling on Bay Roberts residents to cheer on the runners as they arrive. A closing ceremony takes place in St. John’s the next day on July 16.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 32 at 108 Water Street in Bay Roberts has been a fixture in the town for over 70 years. The Legion’s provincial command has encouraged all branches to get behind the Run The Rock effort.