OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Sep 22, 2013) - More than 22,000 Canadians and members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) ran, walked, and rolled today in the sixth annual Canada Army Run - widely acknowledged as the fastest-growing run in the country. The run, which has broken attendance records since it was launched in 2008, sold out in June.

Among the VIPs who took part in the Opening Ceremonies were Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada and Mrs. Sharon Johnston, patrons of the event; the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence; Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander of the Canadian Army; and Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson.

"Our Canadian Armed Forces play a vital role in protecting the interests of Canadians and we know that this service is not without challenge or sacrifice," said Minister Nicholson. "The turnout for Canada Army Run speaks volumes about the level of support that this community - and this country - has for our men and women in uniform, while contributing directly to supporting our ill and injured members and their families."

"Canada Army Run provides an incredible opportunity for those of us in uniform to meet Canadians from across the country and to come together as one in the spirit of community and camaraderie," said LGen Hainse. "On behalf of the Canadian Army, we sincerely appreciate the support Canadians have shown us and feel immense pride in the growing popularity of this event."

Canada Army Run attracts a wide variety of participants. Some come in celebration of family members who had careers in the military, or of loved ones who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Others come to salute Canada's ill and injured soldiers, whose participation demonstrates for all the true spirit of "soldiering on." Thousands of other runners attend to simply say "thank you" to the men and women of the CAF for all they do to keep Canadians safe at home and abroad.

Fundraising efforts and proceeds from this year's Canada Army Run have generated more than $300,000 for Soldier On and the Military Families Fund, with donations still coming in.

Complete results are available here.

About Canada Army Run

Canada Army Run is a unique running event in which Canadians run, walk, or roll side-by-side with members of the CAF in half-marathon and 5K events. Fundraising efforts and proceeds benefit Soldier On and the Military Families Fund.