Formation 5k raises the rainbow flag

Military members and civilian staff who ran June’s Formation 5K race did so with pride. 

 

Over 200 runners set off from Y-Jetty at 8:30 a.m. on June 28, running a loop through the streets at Naden and Dockyard in the Victoria Pride Week themed event. While organizers from Personnel Support Programs (PSP) handed out rainbow pride flags along with water and snacks during warmups at the starters table, a handful of participants went a step further and donned rainbow-coloured attire to celebrate the occasion.

 

Among the most colourful of runners in the crowd was Lieutenant (Navy) Lindsey Bookham of the PSP Fitness Cell. She took part in the run dressed in rainbow-coloured costume alongside two of her civilian friends, Malia ‘Chastity’ Copley and Sheena ‘Charlie Chapstick’ Finkbiner, also in colourful costume and makeup. All three perform in drag shows with local dance studio Passion and Performance and each said they jumped at the chance to wear costume for the Formation 5K.

 

“Having a pride-themed run is a very visible way to promote and celebrate pride,” said Lt(N) Bookham who goes by the stage name ‘Java the Butt’. Copley shared in the sentiment, adding that it’s ‘very cool’ the military is showing such great support and promoting pride.

 

Captain (Navy) Kevin Whiteside, CFB Esquimalt Base Commander, was also among the participants.

 

“The Defence Team is really a cross-section of Canadian society, and our mission is all about celebrating and encouraging diversity within the formation. It’s great to have Pride Week celebrations as part of this popular athletic event,” said Capt(N) Whiteside.

 

Organizers say the Pride theme component was an effort to promote inclusivity and support Pride initiatives taking place for Victoria Pride Week (June 27 to July 7), says Kiana Deland, one of Fitness and Sport Instructors who oversees the monthly Formation 5K.

 

Matt Carlson, Base Public Affairs Projects Officer, was first to cross the finish line and pumped his fists in triumphantly after clocking in with a time of 16:44. He was followed by Lt(N) Adrian Thow (17:38) and Lt(N) Rodney Newcombe (18:08).

 

Carlson, who has won the Formation 5K several times over the past ten years said it felt great to win the first Formation 5K pride run.

 

“Having a pride run is a great fit for the Base and its objectives of providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for military members and employees,” said Carlson.

 

The Formation 5K run focuses on increasing engagement and focusing on esprit de corps and teambuilding across the formation. The run occurs on the last Friday of every month, rain or shine.