Inuvik (Sep 19/03) - Even through slush and blowing snow, organizers say the 23rd Annual Terry Fox Marathon of Hope was a big success in Inuvik.

Bobby Despres, recreation programmer for the Town of Inuvik, said the participation was great, all things considered.

"We had the blizzard warning this morning and I was wondering how many people would actually show up," Despres said.

"Looking at last year's stats and this year's stats, we had about the same amount of people.

"We also took in about the same amount of money as last year, which is really good for the cause."

He said it's through the continued support of towns like Inuvik that the marathon still generates millions to fight cancer, even decades after the passing of Terry Fox.

"It's nice to see a small community can come out and do this year after year," Despres said.

Theresa Ross has participated in the Terry Fox run the past eight years, but this was the coldest she's seen it.

"I remember cold and rainy, but I've never seen it with snow on the ground," Ross said.

Jason King last participated in the run in Inuvik seven years ago, but hasn't missed a year taking part in the event while living down South. This was his first time running the event in the snow, however.

"The snow makes it kind of interesting," King said after the run.

He didn't time his run, but figures he did the 10-kilometres in about 45 minutes.

"It was a great run," he said. "I haven't run the 10-K in a while, but running up north is always great."

"You get to look at the leaves and the snow; it's truly a good experience."