Home > Runs & Races

Could this coastal half-marathon be B.C.’s best kept running secret?

It’s no joke. The BMO Sunshine Coast April Fool’s Run may well be one of B.C.’s best running events. Taking place for the 41st time in 2018, the historic event offers a single point-to-point and net downhill half-marathon that runs from Gibsons to Sechelt on the province’s west coast about a two-hour trip (drive plus ferry) from Vancouver.

It was as close a finish as they come in the men’s race where Benard Cheruiyot Koske (residence not stated) edged out Vancouver’s Paul McNamara by a single second, winning in 1:13:46. James Lamers, also of Vancouver, was third in 1:15:25.

RELATED: Winter realities Vancouver runners will never understand

The women’s race was not quite as dramatic and saw Vancouver’s Laurel Richardson take the top spot in a time of 1:24:56. Allison Ezzat of North Vancouver was second in 1:26:49 with Kristin Smart of Cobble Hill, B.C., third in 1:28:25.

Kim Doerksen, sporting a colourful tutu en route to her win and big PB at the 2014 Sunshine Coast April Fool’s Half-Marathon.

Many participants sport colourful costumes along the route and are rewarded with a generous post-race meal that includes hot soup, fresh coffee and baked goods.

Adding to the event’s unique traditions is the 9:17 a.m. start time (PST).

The event is part of the Lower Mainland Road Race Series and fully sanctioned by BC Athletics.

Elsewhere in the province, the Bazan Bay 5K served as the conclusion of the Vancouver Island Race Series. The race was won by Ben Weir in a time of 15:08, just ahead of Josh Kozelj (15:10) and Derrick Evans (15:11), all of whom hail from Victoria. Alsion Hooper was the first female, running 16:47, and finishing ahead of Chloe Hegland (17:16) and Catrin Jones (17:26), also all from Victoria.

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

The best trainers in Canada under $150

We curated the best performance trainers under $150 to meet your 2024 running goals, while staying on budget