Canadian races to check out before the holidays hit

With the majority of the fall races now in the rearview for many runners its time to take a break or begin building for next spring.

Still, if you’re still thinking about taking advantage of lingering  fall fitness to knock off a PB to use as an excuse for a few days off over the holidays, we’ve got a few suggestions:

New Balance Fall Classic – November 17 – Vancouver

The Fall Classic in Vancouver takes place this Sunday, Nov. 17, but it’s not too late to get registered. The event offers the 10K and half-marathon distances and is known for being a very family-friendly event, well organized and a fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The course runs through UBC’s botanical gardens and is relatively flat and fast. Hot drinks and food will be provided on campus after the race.

Lucky 7 Relay – November 17 – Halifax

The Lucky 7 Relay gives Haligonians a fun three-stage relay event to finish off the year this weekend. Happening on Sunday, Nov. 17, each runner will race a 7K loop, for a team total of 21K.  The 7th, 77th, and 77th runners to cross the finish line win prizes, and the medals are divided into thirds so they all fit together. Unfortunately the race is sold out, but you can catch the action down at Halifax Commons on Sunday. Next year you’ll have to get signed up early.

Hannukah Hustle – November 17 – Hamilton

A 10K race for anyone, walk or run, fast or slow, the Hannukah Hustle course starts in Shalom Village and follows Hamilton’s shoreline for 5K before looping back on itself and running back to Shalom Village for the finish. After the race kosher hot dogs and latkes will be served during the medal presentation.

Vancouver Historic Half – November 24 – Vancouver

Another west-coast half if the Fall Classic is a bit too soon, not that the event brings any less to be enjoyed. The race is on Nov. 24. If you’re looking for a quick 5K or 10K those are available also. The race wraps twice around Stanley Park’s historic seawall.  In late-November style, the race offers long-sleeve shirts in the swag bags.  Registration closes on Nov. 19.

Tannenbaum 10K – December 1 – Toronto

If you’re around Ontario and looking for a chilly 10K to finish off the season, check out the Tannenbaum 10K. The race offers the last major race in Canada of the year. Put on by the Toronto Beaches Running Club on Dec. 1, the course follows an out and back route along the waterfront of the Beaches community. The race is in support of Community Centre 55’s Share A Christmas program, which provides food and gifts for families at Christmas.

Santa Shuffle – December 7 – Across the country

Put on by the Running Room, the Santa Shuffle happens in 39 cities across the country. It offers a 5K run or 1K walk while raising money for the Salvation Army. Check the website to see where the closest event to you is, put on your Santa cap, and have fun December run. Refreshments will be served after and prizes will be awarded.

Do you know of a great Canadian winter race? Let us know in the comment section!