Destination Race: Winterman Marathon & Relays

Date: February 16^th, 2014

Location: Ottawa, ON

Distance(s): Marathon, marathon relay, half, 10K, 5K, 3K

Winterlude, occurring for several weeks in early February, is a major event and attraction bringing hundreds of thousands of tourists to Ottawa, our nation’s capital. Whether it’s skating on the Rideau Canal, admiring the intricate ice and snow sculptures, or enjoying hot drinks and beavertails while taking in the incredible scenery; Winterlude has something to offer everyone.

As part of the event, the Winterman Marathon is an official event of Winterlude, and Canada’s winter marathon. It offers a truly unique running experience with a race distance option suitable for every runner. In addition to the marathon, half-marathon, 10K, 5K and 3K, there is also the option of an eight-, four- and two-person marathon relay.

The event takes place from the Canadian War Museum at 1 Vimy Place on the shores of the Ottawa River with stunning views of the city’s skyline and the National Capital. Participants keep warm before and after the race within the labyrinth of the impressive building which houses all the essential pre and post-race amenities including race kit and chip pick-up, washrooms and changing facilities, baggage check as well as awards and draw prizes.

The Boston and New York certified course is an out-and-back loop over rolling hills that participants complete a number of times depending on the race distance (8 laps for the marathon; 4 for the Half). This provides an opportunity for family, friends and fans to see and support the runners multiple times. A drawback however is that with all races starting at the same time (8:30 a.m.), there will eventually be plenty of traffic out on the course and faster runners will likely need to navigate through and around the crowds.

Participants should expect cold and frigid conditions (temperatures in 2014 were -20 before the wind-chill) and are encouraged to dress appropriately. Transportation to and parking at the museum are also limited so plan your trip accordingly. Proceeds from the event go to support Search and Rescue Global 1 (sar global 1), the “club of the event” and the “Official Winterman Charity”. All participants receive a commemorative finisher’s medal and can enjoy post-race food and refreshments.

Overall, Winterman provides a highly unique and exciting winter running experience for all participants and is an excellent addition to the already popular Winterlude winter festival.