Local runners brave snowstorm and bears in Churchill marathon – SteinbachOnline.com [Video]

Several runners from the southeast braved stormy conditions and the threat of polar bears last weekend in Churchill.

The 13th running of the Polar Bear Marathon took place in blowing snow, while large waves crashed along the shore of the Hudson Bay.

Albert Martens of Steinbach, who hosts the event through Athletes In Action says the runners were caught off guard when they saw the weather conditions Saturday morning.

“We were supposed to have some nice weather,” says Martens. “When they woke up, they saw this snowstorm and they were wondering ‘What are we going to do.'”

In fact, Martens describes the waves along the shore as “fierce” and “intimidating.” But, having said that, he notes they come for the challenge, wanting to test their limits. 

“These runners don’t look for an easy run,” says Martens. “They want the challenge; they want to test themselves and this is fun.”

Martens …