The Big Fun Run Series welcomes people of all ages and abilities to get active, have fun and support charitable causes through family-friendly, themed runs. We spoke with Simon A.J. Burley, the Founder of SEA2SKY Events and Owner of Big Fun Run Series, to learn more about how these experiences bring communities together through movement.
What is your business called and what does it do?
SEA2SKY Events is a Vancouver-based, Canadian-owned company dedicated to creating inclusive, community-driven experiences. The Big Fun Run series brings this vision to life through a family-focused lineup of themed runs designed to welcome participants of all ages and abilities across the Lower Mainland.
What made you want to do this work?
I’ve always loved sport and how accessible it can be to everyone, while at the same time providing community, friendships and health benefits. There’s something really special about creating a shared moment where people are connected through a common goal, whether that’s fun, fitness, or just being part of something.
I remember the excitement in the city around the 2010 Olympics and have witnessed the legacy of that event, through venues (such as the Richmond Oval) as well as the volunteers I’ve met along the way, whose first event was in 2010.
Adding themes and costumes to a type of event I already enjoy makes it even better. Everyone at a Big Fun Run has a goal, whether it’s to beat a time, complete their first KM or just have a fun afternoon with their family. I love that all these can coexist at our events!
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I really wanted to create a welcoming space that wasn’t about competition, where people could dip their toes into a new sport without pressure. Don’t want your first 10k to be with 40,000 other people? Come join 200! Don’t want to be pushed out the way by someone trying to qualify for Boston? Walk alongside three generations enjoying the sunshine, or a Dad and daughter dressed up as Easter bunnies!
Vancouver has so many amazing athletes and high-performance events, but not everyone is looking for that. The goal was to build an event series that felt accessible for recreational runners and families, a space where people could come together, combine fun and fitness, and feel included no matter their pace or experience.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our community is made up of families, first-time runners, social runners and people of all ages and abilities who are looking for a fun, welcoming way to get (or keep) moving. From young kids doing their very first 1 km loop to parents, grandparents, and friend groups walking or running together, the Big Fun Run series is designed to feel accessible, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone. People are drawn to the relaxed, themed atmosphere as a chance to have fun, run at their own pace, and be part of the community in a different way.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
Each event is supported through participant entry fees and valued sponsorship partners, which help bring the experience to life. Beyond covering event costs, every run also gives back by partnering with a local charity, like KidSport BC, the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau and the Richmond Food Bank, with funds raised helping support kids and families in our community.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Sport event professionals are everywhere in Vancouver, from grassroots fun runs and competitive races to major sporting events and the teams that call this city home. It’s a vibrant, active community, and I feel lucky to be part of it, working across a range of local events while also producing my own.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
I think the question needs to be asked back to the customer- what kind of event are you looking for? Do you want to run for prizing or for personal goals?
Unlike competitive races, our events are all about fun, inclusivity, and creating a positive experience, especially for kids, families, and anyone new to running. There are plenty of competitive races in Vancouver, but this isn’t one of them. The Big Fun Run series is about showing up, moving your body, and enjoying the moment together.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is, without a doubt, seeing kids build confidence through movement and watching families make memories together. Those moments really stick. At the Easter Run, seeing kids light up when they get their chocolate medal is always a highlight.
The toughest part is probably the weather. When you’re planning outdoor events, there’s only so many things you can control, and the weather isn’t one of them! Whether you get sun, rain or snow(!), it can make a big difference. That unpredictability definitely adds some stress.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
There are a lot of puns in the fun run world, but a joke I heard recently was:
Have you heard the joke about the fun runners?
No, jog my memory.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow the Big Fun Run Series on Instagram and Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Another local business I love is Modo Car Co-operative. They offer the public as well as businesses, the ability to rent vehicles by the hour or day and have a wide variety. One day I might need a Car, next a Pickup or even a Van! With Modo being a local organisation and a Co-op gets them bonus points!
