Fall races that make fabulous firsts

We know that feeling when fall is approaching but you have yet to pick your seasonal running focus. You may have been pondering a race but just can’t seem to settle on one or you’re intimidated because you’ve never been to the start line before. We have been rounding up fall race suggestions for our Canadian runners out there to help expedite the decision process. If you’re running your first ever race, here are some suggestions:

Mud Hero

Where/ when: Various race across Canada

Why pick it: Those who organize obstacle races are out to give participants fun memories. When signing up for a first race, you don’t necessarily want to be thinking extra competitive or extra fast. Get a feel for the racing scene while being able to laugh at yourself as you and your friends get covered in mud. Your time will be the last thing on your mind.

Hampton 5 Miler

Where: Halifax

When: Sept. 6

Why pick it: This event boasts being family friendly and with only 500 participants, the crowds and competition aren’t large enough to make this intimidating. You want friendly and fun for a first race and this race is exactly that. It runs only a 5K and 10K which are popular distances among beginners. That means many runners are in the same boat.   

Toronto Zoo Run 

Where: Toronto

When: Sept. 12

Why pick it: What better way to calm race day nerves than seeing lots of animals? During this race, runners take to the Toronto Zoo to run while visiting their fuzzy friends. Runners can take their pick between a 5K and 10K. With 4,000 runners in attendance, it’s by no means small. That said, it’s a friendly crowd.

Toronto Women’s 8K/ 5K

Where: Toronto

When: Oct. 24 

Why pick it: When starting out, you don’t want to go big. That’s why distances like an 8K or 5K are perfect for the racing debut. The Toronto Women’s Race Series provides an atmosphere which many say is non-intimidating and supportive.

Bustin’ Loose Race to End Breast Cancer 

Where: Medicine Hat, Alta.

When: Oct. 4

Why pick it: This is another race the focuses on the 5K and 10K distances. The environment is perfect to encourage new runners to stay in the racing scene. The directors provide a chili to eat afterwards, door prizes, entertainment and even a best-dressed award. Runners will have so much fun at the post-run festivities, they’ll already be having their next race in mind.  

Run for the Hills Marathon 

Where: Treherne, Man.

When: Sept. 13

Why pick it: It’s a nice, small race with only 400 other runners so family and friends coming to support should have no problem picking their runner out in the crowd. The course is at its best in fall. Runners will feel like they are simply going for a nice autumn run.

Rock the House Run

Where: Calgary

When: Sept. 20

Why pick it: It’s rock ‘n roll themed, with participants encouraged to wear rock star attire. Just try to take yourself too seriously at this one…

Vancouver Eastside 10K

Where: Vancouver

When: Sept. 19

Why pick it: It’s priced fairly and the race directors deserve bragging rights for how well organized it is. Everything should be crystal clear for runners on race day! Enjoy this out-and-back course with Vancouver scenery.