When runners gather at the start line and the horn sounds to begin the Medavie Blue Nose Marathon, it will mark more than the start of a race — it will signal an exciting new chapter for Medavie as the event’s main sponsor.
Medavie has supported the marathon for many years, including as the former sponsor of the half‑marathon. This new role reflects our strong commitment to improving the wellbeing of Canadians and giving back to the communities we serve as a not‑for‑profit organization.
The marathon weekend will take place May 15–17, 2026, in Halifax. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to run, walk, or wheel through the city’s scenic streets. With six race events, it’s a celebration of movement, inclusion, and community spirit.
Meet our team
This year, we’re excited to introduce our first-ever Medavie Blue Nose Marathon Relay Team — a group of inspiring people who show what healthy, active living looks like.
Noah Bastien
Role: 12-year-old son of Nancy Theriault (Medavie Brand Manager)
Location: Dieppe, New Brunswick
The reason I run: I run for my mom; she has lupus* and is not able to. (Noah has been volunteering at the Blue Nose alongside his mother since 2022.)
My top race-ready tip: Do lots of sports. I play soccer and hockey, and it helps keep my energy up for running.
*Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which means her body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues.
Allison Garber
Role: Director, Executive Communications and External Relations
Location: Bedford, Nova Scotia
The reason I run: Running has been transformational for both my mental and physical health. I started training seriously while coping with the grief of losing my mother, and my first race was the Blue Nose Marathon in 2018. Since then, I’ve completed five marathons, including running the Boston Marathon twice.
My top race-ready tip: Consistency is key! Some days it’s tough to get moving, but you never regret a run once it’s done.
Watch this video for the story behind Allison’s relationship with running.
Patty Faith
My role at Medavie: Chief Brand and Reputation Officer
My location: Hammonds Plains, NS
The reason I run: Running is part of my mix of lifestyle choices to support a fuller healthier life.
My top race-ready tip: Welcome to wherever you are – run your own race.
Andrew Veinott
Role: Assistant Vice President, Finance
Location: Dartmouth, NS
The reason I run: Originally, it was for endurance for rugby; now it’s just keeping up with my dog!
My top race-ready tip: Do the training! One time, friends invited me to a 25k foot race at the last minute, and it took a week to recover!
Caitlin Ferguson
Role: Director, Communications and External Relations
Location: Bedford, Nova Scotia
The reason I run: To unwind and challenge myself.
My top race-ready tip: Have a great playlist ready! Everything from Guns N’ Roses to Pitbull.
Richard Van Horne
Role: Manager, Health and Disability Management
Location: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
The reason I run: To stay healthy and challenge myself.
My top race-ready tip: Crosstrain to help avoid injury.
Running for a greater cause
This team shows that movement can do more than keep us active. It can help support important community causes. The Giv’er Charity Challenge lets participants raise money for charities while taking part in the marathon. In 2025 alone, runners raised more than $270,000 for 83 organizations across Canada.
This year our relay team will raise funds for The North Grove, a community hub located in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. The North Grove has been supported by the Medavie Foundation, our independently operated, registered charity, since 2016. It offers programs that bring people together through fresh food, gardening, and community connection.
Explore the 2025 Medavie Impact Report to see how our partnership with The North Grove, along with other community-based organizations across Canada, is helping build healthier communities.
