Fall races in Canada: Best post-race food

Fall is going to be upon us soon and runners enjoying the nice outdoors in summertime will soon have fall goal races on the brain. Not sure which race to sign up for? We’re bringing you the best of Canadian fall races. There are many factors that get these races added to the runner’s bucket list. One of them is the post-race celebrations. More specifically, the post-run meal. Below are a few suggestions on races to look into if you want the big feast after a hard effort (in no particular order).

1) Cape to Cabot

When: Oct. 18

Cape to Cabot is a 20K event in St. John’s, N.L., It’s supposed to be the toughest road race in eastern North America but the tough going is worth it. At the end, runners are served brunch and beer.

2) Granville Island Turkey Trot

When: Oct. 12  

Why not sign up for a race that takes place on Thanksgiving? Save yourself the hassle of cooking a big feast. Run Vancouver’s Seawall and settle in for gourmet food when it’s all over.

3) Longboat Toronto Island Run

When: Sept. 13

Put on by a Toronto run club, this run offers the gorgeous scenery of Toronto’s islands and a big barbecue lunch afterwards. What a great way to spend an early fall/ late summer afternoon!

4) Run for the Toad 

When: Oct. 3 

Runners who want to try their hand at a longer race can sign up for the 50K but for the runner who wants a bit of a trail experience without doing an ultra distance, there’s a 25K and relay option. Those who have run for the toad will tell you that the meal served afterwards was amazing!

5) Demi-marathon de Granby 

When: Oct. 4 

Fresh fruit, pasta, wine and beer are perfectly acceptable reasons to run. During the first week of October, this is also perfect running conditions for a race — not too hot, not too cold!

6) Oktoberfest Run

When: Oct. 18

One of the best races in Waterloo, Ont., the Oktoberfest Run sees many entrants in both the 5 and 10K. Kitchener’s Oktoberfest celebrations are also the largest outside of Germany so Canadians should take advantage and visit. Finisher’s get festive by having sausages after the run.

7) Fillion Sports Marathon de Rimouski

When: Oct. 4 

Not only is this a PB course, runners get to enjoy scene of the St. Lawrence River as they cruise. When its all said and done, runners settle into a large hot meal that will satiate hungry runners after the marathon.

8) Trapline Marathon

When: Oct. 11

Love trying local cuisine when travelling? This Newfoundland race might be for you. Combine your love of food and running at this marathon, half or 10K. Afterwards, runners are served traditional Labrador food for their hungry bellies.