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RaceGuide’s featured events of the week: August 8-9

After a slow start to the summer, August makes way for an abundance of events including a mix of road, trail and even ultra-relay races.

Saturday August 8th: Emporer’s Challenge, TumblerEmperors Challenge Ridge, B.C.

Popular

Profile: The 17th annual event features a half-marathon mountain run (actually 20K) that sold out in 2014 and is likely to do the same again. Beginning several kilometres south of Tumbler Ridge, the uniquely challenging course begins near the treeline and has participants climb over 600m to the summit of Babcock Mountain before the descent back home. The route has been improved to include less travel on exploration roads and more single track trail through impressive scenery of meadows, valleys and rock formations. The event is well organized, features excellent amenities and is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,000; Fee(s): $65

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Challenging: 4; Getting to/from: 3; Experience: 5

loop-the-lake-2015Saturday August 8th: Loop the Lake, Invermere, B.C.

Profile: Celebrating 20 years in 2015 and located in the stunning Columbia Valley, Loop the Lake offers two popular race distances – a half-marathon and 10K – that feature stunning scenery and offer a unique race day experience. Cool weather and plenty of sunshine are the norm and participants are sure to enjoy the fresh, peaceful and rejuvenating surroundings that accompany the point-to-point courses which start in Windermere and follow the lake to neighbouring Invermere. After the race, there are awards, a pancake breakfast and plenty more to see and do.

By the Numbers: Participants: 750; Fee(s): $55-65 (Half); $45-55 (10K)

Charity: The Rotary Club of Invermere

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Atmosphere: 4; Amenities: 4; Family-friendly: 5

MontTremblantSunday August 9th: Demi-marathon de Mont-Tremblant, Que.

Certified, Popular, Destination Race

Profile: Located in the picturesque resort town of Mont-Tremblant, this half-marathon event is surely one of Quebec’s most scenic. Half and 10K runners are shuttled to their respective starts north of the town centre where they begin their point-to-point and net downhill journey back to the finish in the downtown Parc au Fil-de-l’Eau. Participants can expect incredible views of mountain lakes, rushing rivers and lush forest along the way and then enjoy the post-race celebrations in one of Canada’s most treasured towns.

By the Numbers: Participants: 3,000; Fees: $45-65 (Half); $40-60 (10K); $30-45 (5K)

Charity: Soles 4 Souls

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Atmosphere: 5; Amenities: 4; Swag/medals: 4

marathon by the sea saint johnSunday August 9th: Marathon by the Sea, Saint John, N.B.

Certified, Boston Qualifier, Race Expo

Profile: Marathon by the Sea is the largest running event in the city of Saint John and offers a marathon and half as well as 10K and 5K races. The courses will start near the Marco Polo cruise terminal and follow an out-and-back through the city centre and along the rolling and rocky shores of the Bay of Fundy before reaching the turnaround points. The event includes a complimentary pasta dinner the night before and all races are followed by festivities, celebrations and awards.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,000; Fees: $60-85 (Marathon); $50-75 (Half); $30-45 (10K); $25-40 (5K)

Charity: Bobbies Hospice

Ratings: Scenery: 4; Organization: 4; Amenities: 4; Atmosphere: 4

endurrunSunday August 9th: The ENDURrun, Waterloo, Ont.

Profile: Called the Tour de France of running, ENDURrun is an eight day, seven stage event that totals 160K. The “Ultimate” competition is for individuals looking to test their endurance while relay and “Sport” categories are available for those seeking a more manageable challenge, fun and camaraderie. All events including a 10K time trial, 25K trail run and the concluding marathon take place in and around the region of Waterloo. Organization is top-notch as are the race amenities making for a unique and highly rewarding experience.

By the Numbers: Participants: 500; Fee(s): $350-500 (Ultimate & team relay); $150-225 (Sport); $35-50 (Stage guest)

Charity: United Way

Ratings: Experience: 5; Unique/specialty: 5; Challenging: 5; Amenities: 4

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