At 9:00 a.m. on Christmas Eve morning, December 24th, participants of all ages gathered at Fitness Corner in Southampton to run, walk, jog, or cycle 2.5k or 5k routes along the streets of Southampton.
Most were dressed in whimsical, festive and funny garb, but they were all there for one reason …
to raise funds for mental health initiatives at the 21st annual Reindeer Romp.
The fun event, that began in Port Elgin 21 years ago with only three people, and that has moved to the Fitness Corner in Southampton, is held in support of mental health initiatives at the Bruce Shoreline Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey Bruce located in Southampton.
Organized by Geordie Farrell (co-founder of Saugeen Track & Field Club) and Holly Vanderzwet (owner of Fitness Corner), the 2025 Christmas Eve day event total is not yet in but at last count more than $3,000 was raised with donations continuing to come in on-line at www.reindeerromp.ca.
“Christmas is particularly difficult for people who are suffering from mental health issues,” said Farrell. “Our donation through Bruce Shoreline of CMHA from the Reindeer Romp makes a huge difference to mental health in our area and added that donations can be made any time of the year at www.raindeerrompca.”
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