RaceGuide’s featured events: October 24-25

October is approaching an end and with it the fall race season begins to wind down. This week’s featured events include a truly international marathon and one of two Rock ‘n’ Roll events in Canada.

Sunday Oct. 25th: Rock ‘n’ Roll Oasis Vancouver Half Marathon, B.C.

Certified Course, Popular, Historic, Race Expo

Profile: Vancouver’s first and Canada’s second Rock ‘n’ Roll series event paired up with the already successful and historic James Cunningham Seawall Race which has 45 years of proven experience. The courses showcase Vancouver’s lively cityscapes, oceanfront pathways and spectacular mountain views in and around the city’s famed Stanley Park and Seawall and finishes at Devonian Park. Participants should expect the excellent organization that comes from the storied Seawall race and the proven success and energy of the R’n’R series events.

By the Numbers: Participants: 9,500; Fee(s): $65-150 (Half); $45-65 (10K)

Charity: John Volken Foundation

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Unique/specialty: 5; Organization: 4; Atmosphere: 5

Sunday Oct. 25th: Niagara Falls International Marathon, Ont.

Certified, Boston Qualifier, Race Expo, Historic, Destination Race

Profile: One of few events to start in one country and finish in another, Niagara Falls is truly an international event and experience. The point-to-point marathon course begins in Buffalo, N.Y. before participants climb over the Peace Bridge into neighbouring Fort Erie, Ont. They then loop the historic city before following the scenic Niagara Parkway along the mighty Niagara River towards the world famous finish at the majestic Horseshoe Falls. Participants can expect an exceptional level of race organization, a memorable experience and all the typical amenities before, during and after the races.

By the Numbers: Participants: 4,500; Fee(s): $95-120 (Marathon); $70-95 (Half); $50-60 (10K); $40-50 (5K)

Charity: Greater Niagara General Hospital Foundation

Ratings: Scenery: 5; Unique/specialty: 5; Organization: 4; Atmosphere: 4; Getting to/from: 3

Sunday Oct. 25th: Marathon de Magog, Que.

Certified, Boston Qualifier

Profile: A late-season event in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Marathon de Magog is a scenic and small town event. The marathon is a double loop of the half (21.1K) course which takes participants from downtown Magog on a scenic and occasionally hilly route through the surrounding countryside. Small town charm and fresh country air provide a nice alternative to the larger, big city events and the overall atmosphere and experience is definitely worth it for those in search of a unique and memorable event.

By the Numbers: Participants: 2,500; Fees: $60-75 (Marathon); $50-65 (Half); $40-55 (10K); $30-45 (5K)

Charity: Memphremagog Hospital Foundation

Ratings: Scenery: 4; Organization: 3; Amenities: 3; Swag/medals: 3