Well-known local runner, Martin Parnell is preparing for his 10th and final New Year's Eve Run in Cochrane!

Parnell started this family-friendly walk and run back in 2010, and has been spending each New year's Eve since then, raising funds for charities close to his heart.

Parnell says "The first 5 years was for the children's charity 'Right to Play', the sixth year we raised funds for a playground in Tanzania and the last 3 years has been for 'Free to Run' and they support women and girls in conflict countries through sport."

During that initial year, Parnell raised over $300,000 and ran 5 marathons every single week; totalling 250 marathons that year! 

This year he wanted to focus on raising funds for the local Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area. He says "For number 10 we wanted to bring it home, and I've always had a soft spot for the local Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and wanted to fundraise for them this year; for my final run."

All of the funds collected from the run will go towards operations and programming at the CLUB. The CLUB is a youth exclusive division of the Boys & Girls Club, which provides teens with a fun, safe space to hang out, do homework or seek support.

You don't have to be a seasoned runner to participate in the New Year's Eve Run. The event is open to all ages and abilities and welcomes runners and walkers of all ages.

There's a 9 am start for participants wanting to do the entire marathon. The half marathon starts at noon, and there are also options to do 10km, 5km and even a 2km loop.

Registration is a 'give what you can' donation and you can do so by visiting www.martinparnell.com and clicking on the "DONATE" button.

The event is taking place at the Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre in Cochrane.