One of the more unique fundraising events launched this morning on the southwest coast.

Runners, comprised mostly of alumnae from HMCS St. John’s, are doing the 900-km across the island relay style to raise money for Make-A-Wish Canada.

This is the 30th year of the event with the first leg involving the trek from Port aux Basques to Stephenville. Alyssa Shaw says some of the participants see the event as the highlight of their military career.

She travels across the island with the crew, and says the runners are taking time away from their families to raise awareness and to make wishes come true.

The objective is $200,000 which would grant the equivalent of 20 wishes. Last year’s $156,000 total was a record-breaking year for Run the Rock.