RaceGuide’s Events of the Week: June 27-28

Summer is in and June is out but there are still several seasonal events to end the month in style. Here from RaceGuide are the featured runs and races taking place this final weekend of June.

Saturday June 27th: Pride and Remembrance Run, Toronto, Ont.

Popular

Profile: Canada’s longest-running Pride Run celebrates its 20th year in 2015. A popular event that regularly sells out and official part of the Toronto Pride week festivities, this 5K run and walk raises money for various LGBTQ charities. The course starts in ‘The Village’ at Wellesley and Church and runs to and around Queen’s Park and the provincial capital buildings (twice) before returning to the finish. Along the way, participants are supported by some of the most cheerful and colourful supporters of any race. After finishing, participants gather in a local square for amazing post-race food and refreshments (including cake) and a well-attended recognition ceremony.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,500; Fee(s): $30-45

Charity: Various LGBTQ charities

Ratings: Charitable: 5; Atmosphere: 5; Refreshments: 5; Getting to/from: 5

Saturday June 27th: Demi-marathon de Sherbrooke, Que.

Certified, Popular

Profile: An event that continues to increase in popularity and offers a half, 10K, 5K as well as a kid-friendly 1K. The signature half is generally flat with a few gentle rolling hills. All races start on the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and participants proceed into the park of the same name then follow a path along the river towards the city of Rock Forest. There they turn around and return to the bridge where they cross for a second time and complete a loop of the Lac des Nations before the finish in the park.

By the Numbers: Participants: 3,200; Fees: $55-70 (Half); $45-60 (10K); $35-50 (5K)

Charity: Fondation du CHUS

Ratings: Organization: 4; Amenities: 4; Swag/medals: 4 ; Getting to/from: 3

Sunday June 28th: Scotianbank Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K, Vancouver, B.C.

Certified, Popular, Race Expo, Fast/PB Course

Profile: The ‘other’ Scotiabank Half – Montreal being the other – is a well-organized and popular Vancouver event that is part of the exceptional and always popular Canada Running Series. The point-to-point and net downhill course starts near the East Mall on the UBC campus and takes participants on a scenic Oceanside tour. The route affords spectacular views of the ocean and Vancouver’s harbour before finishing in Stanley Park. The event offers excellent on-course support, entertainment and race amenities. Participants also enjoy the post-race party including a live band and refreshments.

By the Numbers: Participants: 5,500; Fee(s): $70-120 (Half); $35-60 (5K)

Charity: Scotiabank Charity Challenge

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