RaceGuide’s featured events: October 17-18

The fall race season continues and features a challenging 20K in St. John’s, the only marathon in P.E.I. and Toronto’s signature running event.

Sunday October 18th: Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon

Certified Course, Boston Qualifier, Race Expo, Popular, Destination Race

Profile: Toronto’s largest and signature event of the Canada Running Series is the Toronto Waterfront Marathon #STWM, which is the first Canadian marathon – and only one of four in North America – to be awarded the prestigious IAAF gold label status. All races are flat, fast and festive attracting elite, recreational and first-time runners alike. The revamped marathon and half courses start and finish near City Hall and take participants on a tour of some of Toronto’s most iconic attractions, notable landmarks and unique neighbourhoods including Yorkville, the Annex, the Beaches and many more. Participants enjoy the benefits of loud and supportive crowds, on-course entertainment and excellent aid-stations and volunteers along the way. The running, health and fitness expo takes place Friday and Saturday and is a popular pre-race destination for its many exhibitors and speaker series. The entire event is well organized, extremely accessible and has excellent race day amenities – bag check, refreshments, awards and more – all located conveniently within Nathan Phillips Square near the start and finish lines. Post-race festivities are enjoyed by participants, friends and family alike making this a complete and memorable running experience.

By the Numbers: Participants: 24,000; Fee(s): $80-130 (Marathon); $75-105 (Half); $35-65 (5K)

Charity: Scotiabank Charity Challenge

Ratings: City tour: 5; Organization: 5; Amenities: 5; Experience: 5; Getting to/from: 5

Sunday October 18th: Cape to Cabot 20K Road Race, St. John’s N.L.

Certified, Race Expo, Popular, Bucket List Event

Profile: Said to be “the toughest race in Eastern North America,” Cape to Cabot is one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s premier road racing events. The race sells out within hours, so register early for your chance to take part. The 20K course is one of the most challenging around, with four major climbs and only 3K of flat running and covers beautiful and historic ground along the way, including two national historic parks and the St. John’s waterfront. The post-race reception is also top-notch with a brunch, beer, health expo, draw prizes and awards.

By the Numbers: Participants: 400; Fee(s): $75

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Challenging: 5; Organization: 5; Amenities: 4; Awards/prizes: 4

Sunday October 18th: Prince Edward Island Marathon

Certified, Boston Qualifier, Race Expo, Destination Race

Profile: The province’s largest running event and only one to include the marathon is a popular destination race. The marathon features a scenic point-to-point course starting on the north shores of Prince Edward Island National Park — transportation is provided for participants — and follows the coast before heading south over rolling hills towards the finish in downtown Charlottetown at the Province House National Historic Site. A popular expo, pre-race pasta dinner and Kids Spud Run make for an entire weekend of celebrations at this most unique Maritime event.

By the Numbers: Participants: 1,500; Fee(s): $77-98 (Marathon); $67-88 (Half); $47-68 (10K); $27-43 (5K)

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

Others

Saturday October 17th: Banff Ekiden Relay

Saturday October 17th: Whistler 50 Ultra & Relay

Saturday October 17th: XTrail Mont Orford

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