Chalk mural world record attempt brightens Meewasin trails

Saskatoon came together on the Meewasin Valley Trails Saturday to set a world record for the longest chalk mural created.

More than 1,300 people preregistered for the record attempt, with many more walking up to help fill the space needed to set the record.

Andrea Lafond, the Meewasin Valley Authority’s CEO, said the project brought a strong sense of community to Saskatoon.

“I think we know we have a unique gem and jewel in the Meewasin Valley,” she said. “(People) love the trails, they want to be able to give back. This is an opportunity where nothing matters: age, race — anything. You can get out here and you can paint your picture of the Meewasin Valley.”

They had 1300 sign up to complete the world record, which is 5.73 km.

Guiness is not there, but they’ve brought in surveyors for their accuracy. Also, every work of art needs to be a river valley theme. #yxe pic.twitter.com/s5DabOb9G1

— brady lang (@BradyLangSK) August 31, 2019

“It’s an event that brings a lot of people together,” said Michael Leganchuk, who brought his family to the attempt. “Everyone’s interested in what everyone else is doing. It’s something to do, that’s fun (for the whole family). It’s an individual thing that turns into a teamwork piece.”

People taking part were given their space to create their art — with one stipulation: every piece needed to include something that represents the Meewasin Valley. Some of the artwork included flowers, bridges, the river, animals and the city itself.

The existing world record for the longest chalk mural is 5.73 kilometres. The goal for organizers in Saskatoon on Saturday was to get six kilometres.

The Meewasin Valley Authority wasn’t able to have Guinness out for the record attempt, but have their own surveyors to determine if the world record was set.