Santa Shuffle fun run in Fredericton raises $25K for Salvation Army

Dozens of elves, reindeer and Santas dashed through the snow in Fredericton Saturday morning as part of Canada's 25th annual Santa Shuffle Fun Run & Elf Walk.

More than 200 runners, many dressed in festive gear, came out for the five-kilometre run, raising $25,000 for the Salvation Army.

A one-kilometre elf walk was also available for those who wanted to take things a little more easily.

Director Danette Woods says it was the most successful shuffle in the capital city to date.

"It's a very good turnout, we're really pleased and it's a beautiful day for it too," Woods said.

"We do have a lot of snow. We were a little worried about that in the beginning, but it actually turned out really nice — the trail is beautiful."

It was the second time running the race for Joanne and Rod Paul, both of whom finished the five kilometres in less-than-traditional running gear.

"Well, I'm wearing a tree skirt and an ugly Christmas sweater and, of course, the Santa hat," Joanne said.

Rod was also decked out for the occasion.

"I wouldn't say 'ugly Christmas sweater,' seeing how it's my mother-in-law's, but it's a nice sweater," he said. "It goes well with my shorts and green socks."

Organizers are hoping that the largest turnout ever for the event will mean even more donations for those who need it the most this holiday season.

The race was one of 41 taking place across Canada Saturday. Other Maritime locations included Moncton, Saint John and Charlottetown.

Last year more than 16,000 runners across Canada raced in the Santa Shuffle, raising over $600,000 for the Salvation Army.