RaceGuide’s featured events for August 1-3

After several weeks featuring fewer events, the racing calendar is starting to fill up. This week features several trail and road races including one of Canada’s most challenging ultras and most unique 10Ks.

Saturday August 1st: Canadian Death Race, Grande Cache, Alta.

Destination Race, Bucket List Event, Popular

Profile: Every August long weekend in the town of Grande Cache, hundreds of eager participants embark on one of the world’s most challenging courses in what has been dubbed “Canada’s toughest race.” The 125K course at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains includes extreme trails, mountain summits, a major river crossing and 5,600m of elevation change. The event includes both solo/individual as well as team relay options which all sell out quickly. In addition to the incredible race experience and top-notch organization, participants enjoy superb race amenities from start to finish and beyond.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,600; Fee(s): $350

Ratings: Unique/specialty: 5; Scenery: 5; Atmosphere: 5; Organization: 5; Amenities: 4

Sunday August 2nd: Not Since Moses 10K & 5K, Five Islands, N.S.

Bucket List Race, Destination Event

Profile: An event that runs across the Bay of Fundy while the tide is out. This race is like no other. The 5K features an out-and-back loop across a tidal river and onto an exposed sea bed affording views of incredible cliffs usually only seen by boat. The 10K point-to-point route starts at picturesque Soley Cove and finishes at Sand Point affording a similar experience. Buses transport the 10K participants from Sand Point to their start. After the races, hot food is provided, music is played and runners turned poets share their works.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,100; Fee(s): $50

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Unique/specialty: 5; Organization: 4; Amenities: 4; Experience: 5

Sunday August 2nd: Islendingadarurinn 10 Mile Road Race, Winnipeg Beach to Gimli, Man.

Certified

Profile: An annual event organized by the Flying ‘M’ Athletic Club, the Islendingadagurinn Road Race is a 10M/16.1K road race that raises funds to support competitive opportunities for the club’s athletes. The race is described as the flattest, fastest, point-to-point course in the province. The course starts in Winnipeg Beach and travels north to Gimli where it finishes in Pavillion Park, the heart of the Icelandic Festival.

By the Numbers: Participants: 200; Fee(s): $40

Charity: Flying ‘M’ Athletic Club

Ratings: Scenery: 4; Organization: 4; Amenities: 4; Unique/Specialty: 4

Sunday August 2nd: Yukon River Trail Marathon, Whitehorse, Yukon

Certified, Boston Qualifier, Race Expo

Profile: All races including the half-marathon and relays begin and end in Rotary Peace Park. The courses follow alongside or above the Yukon River and of several small lakes. The trail is well worn and features significant elevation gain and loss so participants should expect an aerobic challenge. The routes are well-marked with trail markers and volunteers are posted at key points to ensure everyone remains on track. After the races, post-race refreshments and festivities are enjoyed by all.

By the Numbers: Participants: 500; Fee(s): $35-65

Ratings: Challenging: 5; Scenery: 4; Atmosphere: 4; Amenities: 4

Monday August 3rd: Dartmouth Natal Day Road Races, Dartmouth, N.S.

Certified, Historic

Profile: Since 1907, Dartmouth has been hosting this historic event – Canada’s second oldest – as part of the Natal Day Festival that celebrates the history and traditions of Halifax-Dartmouth. It still maintains somewhat unusual six- (9.6K) and two- (3.2K) mile race distances which are run on a two mile loop showcasing the city’s scenic harbour and waterfront. There’s plenty of crowd support and cheering to keep participants going and a great post-race party to look forward to.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,000; Fee(s): $20 (Adults); $5 (Youth)

Ratings: Atmosphere: 4; Crowds/support: 4; Value: 5; Organization: 4