We began Day 12 by thanking Kent Quigley, manager of the Quality Inn & Suites, for generously sponsoring our accommodation for the night.
Several hundred runners gathered for the Evermore 5 Miler run in downtown Summerside in perfect running conditions along the scenic boardwalk. Just before the start of the race the race director presented the Peace Run to everyone. We had the delegation of the runners at the back of the pack.
The race director made us feel welcome.
Paramita's sister Eileen and her husband Marcel were also present at the race.
Some 5-mile runners holding the torch before the start.
Councillor Ken Trenholm's son, Aaron, holds the peace torch.
We joined the runners for part of the race with the city councillor Ken Trenholm.
A cool, overcast morning greeted the Peace Run team as we gathered in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, for another memorable day carrying the torch of friendship and harmony across Canada's beautiful eastern shores.
The historic Summerside Shipyard, a reminder of the city's deep maritime history. There we were warmly welcomed by Mayor Dan Kutcher and local dignitaries, whose enthusiasm for community-building and environmental leadership reflected the spirit of service that the Peace Run seeks to celebrate. Mayor Kutcher, known for his dedication to civic engagement, sustainability initiatives, and volunteerism throughout Prince Edward Island, encouraged the runners as they continued their journey.
Mayor Dan Kutcher with the Certificate of Appreciation.
Mayor Dan Kutcher and Councillor Ken Trenholm jointly hold the peace torch.
Councillor Ken Trenholm received the torch bearer award for his achievements watched on by his family and his first grandchild.
Ken's life story is one of perseverance, compassion, and community advocacy. From helping vulnerable residents secure housing and support services, to co-founding SAFE Summerside and championing safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists, he has consistently worked to make his city more inclusive and accessible. His commitment to giving people a voice and creating opportunities for families, children, seniors, and active transportation users inspired everyone on the team.
A special highlight of the morning was running alongside Councillor Ken Trenholm. His son Aaron ran ahead of us the entire way.
Carrying the torch together along the Confederation Trail, we were reminded how lasting peace is built through everyday acts of service and care for others.
Striking landscapes along the way.
Joyful family support.
The Confederation Trail is one of the most famous outdoor attractions in Prince Edward Island. It’s a long multi-use trail built on PEI’s former railway network after the trains stopped running in 1989. Today it’s used mainly for cycling, walking, running, and hiking in the warmer months. Main route: 273 km from Tignish in the west to Elmira in the east.
Runners paradise.
Ken made a remarkable 10 kilometres. Helped by his son in law and his son who finished way before any of us.
Leaving Summerside, the route followed the beautiful Confederation Trail toward Kensington. Once known as a busy railway town today it retains its welcoming small-town charm while celebrating its rich railway heritage and strong sense of community.
The runners continued through the rolling countryside toward Stanley Bridge.
In the afternoon, the team arrived at the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish. Few literary characters have introduced the beauty of Prince Edward Island to the world as successfully as Anne Shirley. Some runners walked through the historic Green Gables House.
The Peace run visits the Anne of Green Gables Museum.
Throughout the day, we met people whose dedication to their communities demonstrated that peace is not merely an idea but a living practice.
Immersed in the magical world of Lucy Maud Montgomery.
Some VIP signing the guest book.
Sulabha was having problems with his mobile phone; perhaps this would be an alternative?
The day concluded with a visit to the Anne of Green Gables Museum, where the team was graciously welcomed by staff and given the opportunity to learn more about the island's literary heritage.
Joyful moments.
As evening settled over Prince Edward Island, the runners reflected on another day filled with friendship, inspiration, and the shared hope that every step, every smile, and every torch exchange can help bring people closer together in a spirit of oneness and peace.
In a lovely coincidence Adarini and Jayashri met Rick & Judy West at the Island Resto & Bar. As the president of the Road Runners club Rick had supported Sarita Earp of Halifax in organizing running events for a previous Peace Run.
