2013 Great Canadian Marathon Guide

One of iRunNation’s all-time favourite articles was The True North Strong, Free and Fast: The Great Canadian Marathon Guide from the March 2010 issue. The marathon scene in Canada just keeps growing and getting more interesting; there are now with well over 60 marathons to choose from, and at least one in every province and territory of this great nation. From tiny, no-frills races to luxurious boutique events, rural tours to big city lights, lightning-fast BQ favourites to legendary challenges, there is a marathon to suit every runner’s tastes.

With that in mind, we bring you the all-new, expanded Great Canadian Marathon Guide 2013.

IAAF Silver Label Road Races

There are two marathons in Canada that have this designation, awarded by the International Association of Athletics Federations for meeting several criteria in several categories, including race organization, timing and measurement, and the quality of the international field, to name a few.

The Ottawa Marathon (May 26) just keeps getting more popular.  The race features a course that runs in two provinces, tons of national landmarks, and 100,000 spectators. The whole city turns into an ad hoc “running festival” for the weekend. If you love your adoring fans, this is the place to be.

The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon (October 20) loves making history. This is the race where Reid Coolsaet and Eric Gillis met Athletics Canada’s Olympic qualifying standards, where Ed Whitlock set yet another world record (fastest marathon for an 81-year old), and where Guinness World Records were set for fastest marathon superhero (The Flash) and fastest marathon in a full ice hockey uniform including stick (a Maple Leafs fan). If you’re planning to make history this fall, this is the race for you.

A capital time

Edmonton’s Canadian Derby Edmonton Marathon (August 25) starts and finishes at The Horses at Northlands Park, a racetrack with plenty of indoor washrooms and change areas. Enjoy the famous post-race brunch, and don’t forget to buy extra brunch tickets for your family!

Run in the largest city in the Northwest Territories at the Overlander Sports Marathon (August 18) in Yellowknife. The city got its start in the 1930s with the gold rush, and has come full-circle as a mining town thanks to the discovery of diamonds in the 1990s.

The Canadian Run (August 31) in Ottawa is unique for a couple of reasons – first, it is among the few marathons that take place in the evening, and second, it is run in conjunction with the run portion of the Canadian Iron 226 Triathlon and Duathlon – meaning you will share your marathon with triathletes who have already been on a 4K swim and a 180K bike ride earlier in the day.

Run around one of North America’s largest urban parks at the Saskatchewan Credit Unions Queen City Marathon in Regina, SK (September 8). The prairie elevation profile comes in handy, with a total elevation change of only 72m over the entire course, but sign up early as entries are limited and this event sells out months in advance on a yearly basis.

Welcome to the capital of BC where the GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon (October 13) will play host to the BC Athletics 2013 Marathon Championship. But you don’t have to be an elite to feel welcome. Every finisher is personally greeted by Race Director Rob Reid at the finish.

Take a rural jaunt

When you think of Waterloo, ON, you may think Canada’s Technology Triangle. But don’t let that fool you – the 15th Annual Waterloo Marathon (April 28) sticks to the area’s rural routes, with a picturesque course through Mennonite country and over Ontario’s last remaining covered bridge. Finishers receive a unique hand-made clay medallion.

Run around Prince Edward County at the 10th annual County Marathon (October – 2013 date TBA). The population may be small, but they’re supportive and come out to cheer along the rural route – and you’re welcomed to the post-race party with a free beer.

Lots of elbow room

You won’t feel crowded at the Fool’s Marathon in St. Catharines, ON. The 2013 edition on January 19 had four brave souls, and three ran in 2012. Be sure to study the map and carry your own water since there are no aid stations or course marshals – but don’t worry, there is a post race party!

With under a hundred runners, the Whitby International Marathon (May 26) is cozy with beautiful scenery. And there are pancakes. Need we say more?

July 28 marks the 43rd annual running of the Nova Scotia Marathon in Barrington Passage, NS. The figure-8 course takes you through many small communities on Cape Sable Island, and boasts a relatively flat course, enthusiastic volunteers, and seafood chowder, showers and change rooms at the finish. With 38 runners in 2012, you will have plenty of space.

Run for the Hills in Treherne, MB, where the marathon had 24 finishers in 2012. While you’re there, take in the local attractions including the Boggle Buildings, Treherne Museum, and the Pinkerton Lakes wildlife refuge.

Big bang for your buck

The Kennebecasis Valley Challenge Marathon (October 13), beginning in Bloomfield, promises the toughest, most scenic marathon course in New Brunswick. The early bird registration fee is $45, but to celebrate the 10th running of the race, returning marathoners get in on the action for $10.

Also in New Brunswick, the Biway Marathon in Quispamis on April 28. This no-frills race is limited to 40 participants and costs $20. While there are 3 aid stations along the course, you need your own crew to bring your supplies, and proceeds will go till local trail development.

Not only is the Johnny Miles Marathon (June 16) New Glasgow, NS inexpensive at $60, runners sure get a lot for the fee, from tons of swag to continental breakfast before the event to a pretty robust post-race lunch. Add to that a no-hassle money back guarantee until June 1 and race-day kit pick up, and you can say this event goes above and beyond to make it easy on you. Oh, and if you’re wondering, Johnny Miles was just some unknown kid – who won the Boston Marathon in 1926 (at age 19!) and again in 1929.

Serious hardware

If you’re looking for big bling, the Goodlife Fitness Toronto Marathon (May 5) awards a two-pound medal to all finishers. It also boasts a scenic point-to-point tour of Toronto on a flat, fast course with a lot of downhill segments.

Enjoy running along the St. Lawrence, on cobbled roads and past outdoor cafes at the SSQ Quebec City Marathon/Marathon des Deux Rives (August 25). The best part? For finishing this race, you get a spiffy medal that flashes.

If you like fancy bling, check out our photo gallery, 10 Unique Medals, for a few more that won’t disappoint!

Serious history

The oldest marathon in Canada is the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon (May 26). Tour the city and take in the view of the Rocky Mountains before returning to Stampede Park for a traditional pancake breakfast. Don’t shadowbox your belt buckle medal – you’ll want to wear it with pride to the Stampede in July.

The race itself is only four this year, but Thunder Bay’s iconic Sleeping Giant is made up of some of the oldest rock on Earth. The Miles with the Giant Thunder Bay Marathon (September 22) runs in view of this Canadian Shield formation with dramatic cliffs and dense forests, the Giant, seen sleeping along the side of Lake Superior.

Run Canada’s first incorporated city at Ben’s Smart Marathon by the Sea, Saint John’s, NB (August 11). This year’s race will play host to the New Brunswick Marathon Championships.

Places to BQ

The World Alzheimer’s Day Run for Heroes Marathon in Amherstburg, ON (September 22) takes you along the Detroit River and through Historic Fort Malden. This race doesn’t just claim to be flat and fast – they back it up with numbers: in 2012, 18% of runners qualified for Boston.

Cool temperatures, rural roads, and waterfront trails await you at the Hamilton Road2Hope Marathon (November 3). Enjoy coasting down the Red Hill Valley Parkway – 6+ kilometres of downhill running. As an added bonus, take advantage of the time change to get an extra hour of sleep before the big day. In 2012, 32% of runners qualified for Boston.

Big birthday bashes

The Mississauga Marathon celebrates its 10th running on May 5. Festivities include the Scotiabank Charity Challenge, Guinness World Record attempts, special recognition for people who have participated every year so far, and more – TBA.

Turning 35 this year, the Scotiabank Fredericton Marathon in Fredericton, NB (May 12) promises a flat and fast course on the trails along the Saint John and Nashwaak Rivers. Not only that, onsite childcare is available to runners for $10!

The Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon in Halifax celebrates its tenth anniversary with this year’s race on May 19. While all of the party details haven’t been released yet, race-mascot Myles is promising memorable 10th anniversary medals and “Finished’er” jackets, as well as a wide range of free events all weekend long. To stay on top of party details as they’re released, follow hashtag #BlueNose2013 on twitter!

The Saskatchewan Marathon in Saskatoon, SK (May 26), also celebrates its 35th running this year. While no big party announcements have been forthcoming yet, they promise a new route this year that gets rid of the Pinehouse hill by the finish!

The Manitoba Marathon (June 16) in Winnipeg turns 35 in 2013. This friendly marathon offers a flat and shaded course through residential neighbourhoods, and has been the site of past Canadian Marathon and Masters Championships, as well as the 1999 Pan American Games Marathon.

Celebrate the 10th Prince Edward Island Marathon with a 42.2K tour of Queen’s County. Enjoy the scenery including Prince Edward Island National Park, Confederation Trail, and at least two historical sites.

Take it indoors

How about a nice, toasty run in shorts in the winter? Get to know your fellow racers by doing laps around an indoor track, changing direction every so often. There are now a few to choose from in Canada, including the JOGX Indoor Marathons, featuring events in Sherbrooke (2013 date TBA), Ottawa (January 20), and Montreal (January 27). There are also the Run 4R Kids in Toronto (January 5), and the Thunderwolves Indoor Marathon in Thunder Bay, ON (February 10).

Wear your woollies

While many marathoners prefer to race in the spring or the fall, these winter races will have you proving how tough you can be. At the Yukon Arctic Ultra, the marathon is the shortest race, and beginning in Whitehorse on February 3, you’d better have your woollies.

Test your resolve in Ottawa at the Winterman Marathon (February 17).  The repeating out-and-back course takes you along the Ottawa River where the wind can be quite bitter, and runners appreciate that the water and sports drink at the aid stations is served warm.

Weekend getaways

Ranked a top-10 destination marathon by Forbes, the BMO Vancouver Marathon (May 5) promises a scenic route through parks, neighbourhoods, city streets and alongside beaches. Plus, if you want the first class treatment, you can buy the VIP Race Registration Package, featuring express kit pick up and a VIP tent at both the start and finish.

Venture to the Saguenay River region of Quebec at the Marathon de Saguenay (June 9). While you’re in the area, why not do some rafting, cycling and hiking – if you’re not too worn out from the race, that is!

In the heart of Ontario wine country, the Niagara Marathon (June 22) begins in Niagara-on-the-Lake and runs nearly all the way to Niagara Falls and back – all on paved trail. Enjoy views of the Niagara River the entire way, with no thinking about traffic.

The third annual Run the Rock Marathon on Texada Island, BC takes place on August 25, but you’ll spend the night before on the island since the ferry won’t get you there early enough on race day. Plan to explore the area by foot or mountain bike, go boating or scuba diving, visit the cafes and pubs, and check out the local arts scene.

Celebrate the season

Celebrate the beginning of winter at the Winter Solstice Westwood Lake Marathon in Westwood Lake, BC (December 21). This race falls on the solstice, regardless of the day of the week, so be prepared! In a one-off special edition of the event, this race was made into a double in 2012 - the "end of the world" edition solstice run still happened on December 21; then they ran it all again on December 22 - the day after the end of the world.

Take it to the trails

The Prairie Inn Harriers Running Club Island Runner Elk/Beaver Ultra in Elk Lake, BC (May 11) offers the First-Timers Marathon as its shortest event. Promising an accurately measured course completing 4+ loops on flat, fast trails, this could be one of the best catered marathons around, with 5 water stations, 5 washrooms, and two food stations per loop.

The Yukon River Trail Marathon (August 4) begins in downtown Whitehorse, but don’t let that fool you – it is a mix of paved trail at the start and finish, with rugged single track trail in between. Watch out for bears – the official race rules suggest a wide detour, or retreating to the nearest aid station.

There’s no messing around at the Mad Moose Marathon (September 22) in Prince George, BC, an event run in conjunction with a 63K ultra marathon on rugged trails with wildlife (yes, that includes grizzly bears). Instead of race rules or FAQs, the website features a “Race Rant” to let you know how this course is run. The rant finishes up with the following: “This is a challenging and difficult course!! If you are not sufficiently trained or in condition – don’t kid yourself, pick another event.” You’ve been warned.

Be a smarty-pants

Billed as Northern Ontario’s largest distance event, the Sudbury Rocks!!! Marathon (May 12) not only offers prizes to top finishers and finishers’ medals, this race has its own scholarship program. Students at Laurentian University need only compete in one of the events or volunteer some time, and show a contribution to healthy living and diabetes awareness in order to apply.

Long weekend races

Get out in early spring to Regina, SK for the Gopher Attack marathon (March 29). Taking place on the Good Friday holiday, this race leaves the rest of the weekend to celebrate your achievement – don’t forget to wear your hilarious Gopher Attack t-shirt!

Woody’s RV World Marathon in Red Deer, AB (May 19), takes place on the Victoria Day long weekend and boasts made-in-Canada bamboo t-shirts. The picturesque course is a figure-8 that is mostly paved trail.

Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Ottawa Fall Colours Marathon (October 13). You can get in the mood with the start at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, a turn-of-the-century village, and enjoy the country setting by running beside farms and rural homes.

Enjoy all that fall has to offer in Kelowna, BC, at the BMO Okanagan Marathon (October 13),including fall colours, fresh fruit, and oh yeah – wine! Bonus: The BQ-rate at the was 10% last year.

Or reflect on gratitude at the quiet Trapline Marathon (October 13) from North West River to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL. Run in honour of the trappers that left the North West River and trekked inland to tend their trap lines each fall, this race promises solitude, but everyone is welcomed to a buffet of traditional Labrador food at the finish.

Run for a reason

The Run for Water in Abbotsford, BC (May 26) promises a flat, fast tour of scenic agricultural lands around the Sumas Prairie. You may even get to meet iRun’s Runner-in-Chief, Ray Zahab, who will be there for the weekend’s ultra marathon, and has been a guest speaker at the event’s fundraising gala.

The Fallen 4 Marathon in Mayerhorpe, AB (June 2) honours the four RCMP officers – Constable Peter Schiemann, Constable Leo Johnston, Constable Anthony Gordon and Constable Brock Myrol – who gave their lives in the line of duty on March 3, 2005.

The Marathon Luc Gallant (October 13), Kouchibouguac National Park, NB, honours a local athlete named Luc Gallant who successfully battled cancer. Every year the proceeds go to a cause that promotes an active lifestyle for youth in the area.

Raise money for literacy initiatives at the Legs for Literacy Marathon (October 27) in Moncton, NB. The event raised $53,000 in 2011.

Awesome post-race parties

This fall, experience the picturesque rolling coastline route through Eastern Passage and Cow Bay, NS at the Maritime Marathon (September 14).  This pirate-themed marathon weekend promises great booty and healthy food, among other things. The best part? It’s on Saturday so you can enjoy the epic post-race party and still have Sunday to recover.

Wildlife spotting

The Northwest Passage Marathon and Ultramarathon (July 3) is Canada’s most northern marathon, taking place on Somerset Island, NU. The course is marked with Inukshuks and flags, and runners have reported seeing beluga whales, seals – and yes, polar bears – at past events.

Go to the beach

The Edge-to-Edge Marathon, Tofino, BC (June 9) doesn’t just run by the beach – it runs on the beach. Chesterman Beach, that is – about a kilometre section of hard-packed sand with spectacular ocean views – a perfect spot for your supporters to take pictures. When you’re finished, enjoy the buffet while you watch the rest of the race.

Take in the beautiful scenery of Sept-Iles, QC at the Mamu Marathon des Galeries Montagnaises (June 30). Enjoy the sandy beaches and views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Sainte-Marguerite River, and watch the cruise ships come and go.

See eagles soaring overhead at the Totem to Totem Marathon, Skidegate, Haida Gwaii, BC (July 21). With views of the water, beach and trees, not to mention the six totems at the start/finish, it’s hard to beat the scenery.

Be a VIP

The Huffin’ Puffin Marathon in Mount Pearl, NL (September 22) is highly exclusive - open to members of the Newfoundland and Labrador Athletics Association. But don’t despair – you can purchase a one-day permit from the Association for $5.

Pick up an awesome earworm

Part of the Rock’n’Roll Series, the Oasis Rock’n’Roll Montreal Marathon (September 22) promises music every mile and a Finish Line Festival with more live music and a gigantic party.

Each mile of the Surrey International World Music Marathon (September 29) is themed to represent a different culture from around the world. Enjoy each mile of decorations, music and performers twice on this double-loop course.

The Cape Breton Fiddlers Run (October 20), Sydney, NS, is dubbed as the “unforgettable Celtic race experience you won’t want to miss.” A rolling course with stunning views of the ocean

Bring your passport

The Niagara Falls International Marathon (October 27) is the only marathon in the world to begin in one country and end in another. Begin your race right outside the Albright-Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, NY, run over the Peace Bridge to Fort Erie, and run down the Niagara Parkway to finish at the Falls.

Run the first

The inaugural Marathon Baie-des-Chaleurs in Carleton-sur-Mer, QC takes place on June 2. The race will take participants long the shores of the Baie-des-Chaleuers.