Oct 10 2024
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Canada Running Series Welcomes Beneva as Official Title Partner of the Spring Run-Off

By | Spring Run-Off | No Comments

Toronto, ON (October 10, 2024) – Canada Running Series is proud to announce that Beneva has joined the team as the title sponsor of the annual series opener, now called Beneva Spring Run-Off, held in Toronto in High Park every April.  

The team at Canada Running Series welcomes Beneva aboard as it adds another running event to its growing list of partnerships – Beneva Mississauga Marathon and Beneva Montreal Marathon to name two. Beneva is an organization that makes participants’ interests a priority, is enthusiastic when it comes to activating its brand and seeks to provide the best possible experience at the events it’s involved in.

CRS National Event Director, Charlotte Brookes, comments,  

We’re delighted that Beneva is expanding their involvement in running in Canada and that they’ve chosen the Spring Run-Off, the longest continuously held road race in Toronto, to be part of their featured events. Beneva has done such an amazing job of activating and enhancing the events they are involved with by creating whole zones to relax after a great run or walk, we can’t wait to see what they do next at Spring Run-Off!  This event is one of my favourites in our series – it’s Opening Day and the start of a new, exciting season ahead. This year it will be an extra-special launch forward into a 2025 of run, fitness and fun.

EVP Talent, Culture and Communication, Martin Robert, comments, 

We are very pleased and excited about this new partnership with Canada Running Series! This collaboration strengthens our commitment to promoting health and well-being and increases the reach of our brand across the country. By supporting initiatives like these, we continue to show that caring for our clients and members is at the heart of everything we do. Together, we’re taking steps towards a healthier, more active community.  

Stay tuned for more exciting announcements as more details become available in the coming months. 

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Registration for the Beneva Spring Run-Off will open Tuesday, October 15th, 2024, at 12:00 PM and the event will take place in Toronto’s High Park on April 5th, 2025.  

Visit www.springrunoff.ca for more information and to register.  

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For more Canada Running Series news, results, photos, and events, visit  

www.CanadaRunningSeries.com  

Also, check out @runCRS on your favourite social media sites! 

 

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About Canada Running Series (CRS) 

Canada Running Series is the nation’s premier running circuit with 6 events, 4 in Toronto and 2 in Vancouver. It annually attracts over 60,000 participants and raises more than $5 million for some 300 Canadian and local charities. The Spring Run-Off is the first Toronto race of the Series, which concludes with the World Athletics Elite Label TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championships. Since 1999, CRS has gained international recognition for innovation and organization. To learn more about CRS, visit https://canadarunningseries.com/. 

 

About Beneva 

Created by the coming together of La Capitale and SSQ Insurance, Beneva is the largest insurance mutual in Canada with more than 3.5 million members and customers. Beneva employs over 5,500 dedicated employees: people looking out for people. Its human approach is rooted in mutualist values that are shared by its employees. With $25.2 billion in assets, Beneva positions itself as a major player in the insurance and financial services industry. Its head office is located in Quebec City. For more information, please consult beneva.ca.  

 

Media Contact, CRS: 

Damien Hope

damien@canadarunningseries.com 

416-944-2765 x 508

Media Contact, Beneva: 

Media Relations 

1-866-332-3806 

media@beneva.ca 

Sep 23 2024
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Natasha Wodak and Andrew Davies break the tape at the 11th Anniversary of the Under Armour Eastside 10K

By | Eastside 10k | No Comments

The Under Armour Eastside 10K Celebrates 11 years and Over $50,000 for Charities  

VANCOUVER, September 22, 2024 — The Under Armour Eastside 10K celebrated its 11th anniversary with a resounding success, drawing a record-breaking crowd of 3500 runners across in the in-person and virtual event. The event, which enjoyed a third year of sunshine, not only showcased the athletic prowess of participants but also made a significant impact on the local community. 

The men’s race was tight between Ben Preisner and Andrew Davies this morning. In a thrilling finish, Davies emerged victorious in the men’s race, securing a hard-fought win, saying, “I knew by the 8K mark that the race was mine”.  On the women’s side, Natasha Wodak dominated and delivered a remarkable performance that claimed the top spot with a time of 32:47. The ‘kill the hill’ segment of the course adds a fun twist, but Leslie Sexton, second place on the women’s side, easily took on the challenge.  

Beyond the competitive aspect, the Under Armour Eastside 10K is renowned for its commitment to giving back. This year, the event has raised over $50,000, which will be distributed to several local charities: Urban Native Youth Association, Kids Sport, Promise Vancouver, Downtown Women’s Eastside Centre, and PHS Community Services Society. These organizations provide support to vulnerable populations in the Downtown Eastside and promote sport in the community. 

The Under Armour Eastside 10K continues to be a cornerstone of Vancouver’s race calendar, offering a unique opportunity for runners of all ages and abilities to come together and make a positive difference in the community. 

Men’s Winners:   

1st: Andrew Davies 29:49
2nd: Ben Preisner 30:05
3rd: Thomas Broatch 30:06 

Women’s Winners:   

1st: Natasha Wodak 32:47
2nd: Leslie Sexton 33:45
3rd: Eliyah Brawdy 33:56 

For more information about the Under Armour Eastside 10K, please visit the website: eastside10k.ca.   

Sep 12 2024
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Announcing the Elite Field for the 2024 Under Armour Eastside 10K

By | Eastside 10k, Elite Athletes | No Comments

Women’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
F-1 Natasha Wodak North Vancouver BC
F-27 Samantha Jory Vancouver BC
F-28 Geneviève Lalonde Victoria BC
F-3 Leslie Sexton Vancouver BC
F-6 Eliyah Brawdy North Vancouver BC
F-7 Jamie Hennessey Burnaby BC
F-8 Ally Ginther Vancouver BC
F-9 Kiana Gibson Vancouver BC
F-10 Leanne Klassen Calgary AB
F-11 Courtney Brohart Canmore AB
F-12 Jenna Melanson Vancouver BC
F-13 Jouen Chang Vancouver BC
F-15 Amy Windle Caronport SK
F-16 Natalie Whitten New Westminster BC
F-17 Lauren Prufer Squamish BC
F-18 Trisha Helmer Abbotsford BC
F-19 Katherine  Watson Vancouver BC
F-20 Lissa Zimmer Vancouver BC
F-21 Katrina Lim Burnaby BC
F-22 Annika  Austin Vancouver BC
F-23 Emma  Kearns  kelowna  BC
F-24 Samantha Green West Kelowna BC 
F-25 Eriko Soma Vancouver BC
F-26 Shari Boyle Calgary AB

Men’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
M-1 Ben Preisner Vancouver BC
M-2 Thomas Broatch Vancouver BC
M-3 Andrew Davies Vancouver BC
M-4 Alex Drover Calgary AB
M-5 Christian Gravel Vancouver BC
M-6 Chris Taylor Vancouver BC
M-7 Daniel Zewdu  Victoria  BC
M-8 Kevin Coffey Kingston ON
M-9 Alex Cyr Toronto ON
M-11 Harry Halford Calgary AB
M-13 John Boerjesson Broomfield CO
M-14 Evan Elder Vancouver BC
M-15 David  Mutai  Langley  BC
M-16 Sam Wensink Langley BC
M-17 Kyle Kimura Vancouver BC
M-18 Jonathan  Walker Victoria  BC
M-19 Adam Buzinsky Vancouver BC
M-20 Matt Melnik Delta BC
M-21 Jordan Wilson Sechelt BC
M-22 Drew Nicholson Surrey BC
M-23 Andrew Russell Victoria BC
M-24 Craig  McMillan North Vancouver BC
M-25 Gus Amundson Vancouver BC
M-26 Mark Cryderman  Campbell River  BC
M-27 Nikolai Gauer Vancouver BC
M-28 Jerry Loeb Campbell River BC
M-29 Mark Schellenberg Vancouver BC
M-30 John Rasmussen Victoria BC
M-31 James Lamers Vancouver BC
M-32 Brendan Wong Coquitlam BC
M-33 Evan Dunfee Richmond BC
Sep 12 2024
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Race Day Weather Watch: Preparing for Any Condition with Under Armour

By | Eastside 10k, Run Gear, Training Tips | No Comments

We’ve seen every type of weather over the years at the Under Armour Eastside 10K.  Whether it’s blazing sunshine, unexpected rain, or a chilly breeze, what you wear can make all the difference in your performance and comfort. These tips and gear recommendations from our title sponsor Under Armour will keep you at your best.

 

Sunshine

Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential for sunny, hot mornings. Consider gear like the UA Iso-Chill Run Short Sleeve that helps you stay cool by dispersing body heat, allowing you to keep your pace without discomfort. A good quality hat, like the UA StealthForm Hat, can keep the sun off your face, plus its foldable! Throw it in your bag or put it in your pocket after the race – no hat travels better.

Rain

A little rain shouldn’t dampen your spirits. The trick is to stay dry without adding bulk. A lightweight, water-resistant jacket, such as the UA OutRun The Storm Jacket, will keep the rain off while allowing you to move freely.

 

Ultimately, the goal is to be ready for any condition, so the weather becomes just another challenge to conquer. With the right gear, you’ll stay comfortable and focused, no matter what race day brings.

Sep 09 2024
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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your First 10K: Tips for New Runners

By | Eastside 10k, Run Gear, Training Tips | No Comments

Running your first 10K is an exciting milestone, whether you’re a seasoned athlete exploring a new distance or a beginner tackling your first major race. However, this excitement can sometimes lead to avoidable mistakes that can hinder your performance and enjoyment. Here’s a guide from our title sponsor, Under Armour, to help you navigate the 2024 Under Armour Eastside 10K with confidence and success.

Ignoring Nutrition and Hydration

Neglecting proper nutrition and hydration can lead to disastrous results. Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, and stay hydrated throughout your training. On race day, eat a light meal a few hours before the start and hydrate sufficiently. Here are some great resources: (runningmagazine.ca) (unlockfood.ca)

Using Worn-Out Shoes on Race Day

Relying on old or worn-out running shoes can lead to injury. Regularly replace your shoes to ensure proper support and cushioning. Look for a lightweight pair that provides the support and comfort you need, like the UA Velociti Pro Running Shoes.

Not Having the Essential Gear

Running without the right gear can be a mistake. Invest in gear that enhances your comfort, such as the UA Launch Short Sleeve for moisture-wicking, or the UA StealthForm Uncrushable Hat for sun protection.

Starting Too Fast / Poor Pacing Strategy

Starting the race too quickly due to adrenaline can lead to early fatigue. Begin at a comfortable pace and gradually increase it if you feel good later on. A steady start helps conserve energy for a strong finish. Here’s a great article on pacing strategy (runningmagazine.ca).

For more training tips, be sure to check out the 2024 8-week training plan. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a more enjoyable race day at the 2024 Under Armour Eastside 10K. Good luck, and happy running!

Aug 27 2024
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Creating Inclusive Events

By | Community Leaders, General | No Comments

How CRS Ensures Everyone Feels Welcome

Creating a welcoming environment for all participants is at the heart of Canada Running Series (CRS) mission. Recognizing the diverse needs of runners from various backgrounds, CRS has implemented several initiatives to ensure inclusivity and accessibility at their events. 

This article explores how CRS cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity and encourages participation from all community members.

Proactive Inclusion Policies 

CRS has established proactive inclusion policies that promote diversity and accessibility. These policies address the broad spectrum of participants’ needs, ensuring that everyone feels supported and valued.

  • Examples: CRS has developed policies that explicitly prohibit any form of discrimination and harassment. These are communicated through all event materials and are visible on our website.
  • Registration Adjustments: CRS offers registration options that are sensitive to gender diversity, including non-binary categories, and ensures that registration forms are respectful and inclusive of all participants.

Enhanced Accessibility Measures

CRS events are accessible to people of all abilities, incorporating specific measures to accommodate adaptive athletes and those with other needs.

  • Course Design: All CRS race courses are evaluated for accessibility, ensuring that they are free of barriers that could hinder participants.
  • Facilities: Accessible restrooms, changing areas, and race packet pick-up locations are standard at CRS events. 

Promoting Diverse Representation

Visibility and representation are key elements in CRS’s strategy to enhance inclusivity. Efforts are made to ensure that all groups are visibly represented in promotional activities and among event staff and volunteers.

  • Marketing Campaigns: CRS uses promotional materials that reflect the diversity of the community, including varied age groups, races, and abilities.
  • Diverse Teams: Recruitment strategies for staff and volunteers focus on diversity, ensuring that the event planning and execution team is as varied as the participants themselves.

Community Engagement and Feedback

CRS values the input of its community, using feedback to continually refine and improve its inclusivity efforts.

  • Community Consultations: Regular engagement with community groups and participants helps CRS understand diverse needs and expectations, guiding the planning process.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: After events, CRS actively seeks feedback specifically targeted at evaluating the inclusiveness of the event. This helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.

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Canada Running Series’ commitment to inclusivity is a cornerstone of its operations. Through thoughtful policies, careful planning, and open dialogue with participants, CRS ensures that its events are welcoming spaces for everyone. 

The goal is not only to organize races but to celebrate the diverse community that comes together to run, cheer, and support each other. Each CRS event is an opportunity to strengthen community ties and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect in the world of competitive running and beyond.

Aug 12 2024
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Maximizing Your Race Day Performance: Nutrition and Hydration Strategies

By | Uncategorised | No Comments

Race day success is the culmination of training and the precise implementation of effective nutrition and hydration strategies. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or simply looking to finish strong, the fuel you provide your body can make a significant difference. 

This article explores essential nutritional tactics and hydration tips to help runners optimize their performance on the big day.

How to Fuel Before the Race 

Pre-race nutrition starts well before the morning of the event. In the days leading up to the race, focus on carbohydrate loading, which involves increasing the percentage of carbs in your diet while tapering your workouts. This helps maximize the storage of glycogen (energy) in your muscles.

  • What to Eat: Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, pasta, rice, and potatoes. These foods provide a slow and steady release of energy. With 28-31g of carbs in each bar, real food bars like Made with Local are an excellent option for some fast fuel.
  • When to Eat: Have your last big, carb-rich meal the night before the race. On race morning, eat a simple, high-carb breakfast 2-3 hours before starting, such as oatmeal or a bagel with peanut butter, to top off your energy stores.

Hydration Before and During the Race: 

Hydration should be a focus during the race and the days leading up to it. Start hydrating several days before the race to ensure you’re well-hydrated on the starting line.

Choose to hydrate with the options that will be available on the course. For example, the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon uses Nuun on the course, so we’d recommend practicing fueling with Nuun during your training and before the event.  

  • Before the Race: Drink plenty of water and electrolytes the days before the race. Avoid alcohol, as it can dehydrate you.
  • During the Race: Use hydration stations to maintain hydration levels, sipping on water or Nuun containing electrolytes. This is particularly crucial in longer races, where sweat loss can significantly affect performance and health.

What to Eat During the Race? 

Nutrition on the Run: 

Maintaining energy during the race is crucial, especially for events longer than 60 minutes. Consuming carbohydrates during the race can help maintain good blood glucose levels, vital for sustaining performance.

Again, try to practice with what will be available on the race course, or be prepared to carry your own nutrition. The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon offers GU gels on course, so we’d recommend practicing fueling with these during your longer runs. 

  • Energy Gels and Chews: These are easy to carry and can quickly provide a burst of energy. Aim to consume a gel approximately every 45 minutes during the race.
  • Sports Drinks: These can serve a dual purpose by providing hydration and a quick source of energy through carbohydrates. If you prefer to use your own sports drink, we’d recommend bringing a bottle and using the stations on the course for water. 

Post-Race Recovery: 

After crossing the finish line, the recovery process begins. Eating the proper nutrients after the race can help repair muscles, replenish energy stores, and reduce inflammation.

  • Immediate Recovery Meal: Within 30 minutes of finishing, consume a meal or snack rich in carbohydrates and protein. A 3:1 ratio (carbs to protein) is often recommended. Options include a fruit smoothie with whey protein, a turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread, or a rice bowl with lean protein.
  • Hydration: After the race, continue to hydrate to replace fluid losses. Water, sports drinks, and even milk are good options. We love a good post-race chocolate milk! 

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Effective nutrition and hydration strategies are pivotal for achieving peak performance on race day. By carefully planning your pre-, during-, and post-race nutrition, you can enhance your energy levels, optimize performance, and speed up recovery. 

Remember, practicing these strategies during training runs is crucial to ensure they work for you on race day. Here’s to a successful and energized run!

Jun 25 2024
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Running as a Family: How to Get Everyone Involved

By | Training Tips | No Comments

Running or walking doesn’t have to be a solo journey; it can be a bonding experience that brings the whole family closer. Physical activity promotes a healthy lifestyle and instills lifelong values of perseverance, goal setting, and the joy of achievement. 

Whether your family includes young sprinters or more mature marathoners, participating in races and events as a family is about creating memories, sharing successes, and enjoying the great outdoors together. This guide will explore practical ways to involve every family member in running, making it an inclusive, enjoyable, and regular family activity.

Start with Fun Runs and Themed Races

Choose Family-friendly Events

Look for local fun runs or themed races designed with families in mind. These events often have shorter distances, such as 1K or 2K fun runs, and incorporate entertaining themes that appeal to children and adults alike, like superhero runs, colour runs, or obstacle courses.

Benefits of Participating Together

  • Motivation and Encouragement: Running alongside family members provides motivation and builds a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to do their best.
  • Making Exercise Fun: Themed races can transform the concept of exercise from a chore into an exciting adventure. They provide unique experiences that are much more about enjoyment than competition.
  • Building Confidence: Completing a race gives children a tangible sense of achievement and can significantly boost their confidence. It shows them that setting goals and working towards them is rewarding.

Tips for a Successful Family Race Day

  • Pre-Race Preparation: Get everyone involved in the preparation process. Let children help pick out race outfits or create signs. Discuss race day logistics as a family to ensure everyone knows what to expect.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Understand and respect each family member’s fitness level and enthusiasm for running. The goal is to finish feeling good, not necessarily to set personal records.
  • Celebrate Together: Plan a post-race celebration. Whether it’s a special meal, a family outing, or simply relaxing together at home, make sure there’s something to look forward to after the race.

The Finish Line is Just the Beginning

Embracing running as a family activity is more than just a way to stay physically active; it’s a journey filled with laughter, challenges, and unforgettable moments. Each reach training session, each taken together, strengthens the bond that ties your family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

In the grand scheme of things, the distances run or the times achieved are secondary to the shared experiences and the values instilled through running together. Commitment, perseverance, mutual support, and collectively reaching a goal are lessons so far beyond the running track. Life lessons prepare children for the future and remind adults of the importance of health, happiness, and family.

So, as you lace up your running shoes and set out on this path together, remember that every finish line crossed is not an end but a beginning. A beginning to new challenges, higher goals, and more shared adventures. Whether it’s the cheering as you cross the finish line, the high-fives after a particularly tough hill, or the laughter shared over a pancake breakfast post-race, these moments make running as a family beneficial and invaluable.

Let the running journey bring your family closer, one step at a time. Here’s to many miles, laughs, and finish lines ahead.

Jun 24 2024
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Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K Celebrates Exhilarating Race Day and Fundraising Success

By | Charity, General, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

Vancouver, BC – June 23, 2024 

The Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K, hosted by Canada Running Series, celebrated a record-breaking day on the streets of UBC and Kitsilano this morning. Over 4500 participants in the half marathon and nearly 1000 in the 5K – the most in recent history – tackled the scenic course, showcasing the best of Vancouver’s running community with no shortage of joy, athleticism, and perseverance. The runners came from 8 Canadian provinces, 24 American states and 30 countries. Fully 4000 of the 6000 were aged 18-39, underscoring the arrival of a new running boom.

Thrilling Elite Races and Local Victories 

The Half Marathon distance boasted a solid elite list of Vancouver’s locals. In the Men’s Elite race, Justin Kent celebrated his return from injury and the recent birth of his daughter by taking off early and cruising to a convincing victory. Kent broke the tape with a 1:05:09, an impressive solo performance. As a new father, Kent’s lack of sleep from early parenting didn’t prevent his success, one he noted wouldn’t have been possible without the support of his wife and baby girl who cheered him across the line. While he can add the Vancouver Half to his portfolio of wins, Kent won’t be slowing down anytime soon, with sights now set on the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Canadian National Championship in October. Matthew Walker (1:11:30) and Sam Wensink (1:11:38) had a good battle for the second and third podium places.

Canada’s 2020 Olympic Marathoners Natasha Wodak and Dayna Pidhoresky paced alongside each other for the first 15 kilometers before Wodak took the lead, to finish in a time of 1:13:52. Pidhoresky hung on for second in 1:15:22 with Burnaby’s Jamie Hennesey 3rd in 1:18:47. “I wanted to run the first half of the race more on the more conservative side and I pushed myself over the last 6-8K,” said Wodak, giving her the chance to catch a pack of men over last mile joking “it’s always fun to hunt [them down]”.  

Charity Challenge Surpasses Goals 

Canada Running Series is proud to announce that the annual Charity Challenge surpassed its initial goal of $300,000 by nearly $100,000 expecting to round out donations at $400,000 for the 2024 Vancouver Half Marathon, an increase of over 52% from 2023. Fundraising remains open until July 22nd . 

Half Marathon Male:

  1. Justin Kent 1:05:09
  2. Matthew Walker 1:11:30
  3. Sam Wesnick 1:11:38

Half Marathon Female:

  1. Natasha Wodak 1:13:52
  2. Dayna Pidhoresky 1:15:22
  3. Jamie Hennessy 1:18:47

About Canada Running Series    

Canada Running Series is the nation’s premier running circuit with seven events: four in Toronto, two in Vancouver and one in Montreal. It annually attracts over 70,000 participants and raises more than $6 million for some 320 mostly local charities. The Series includes the World Athletics Elite Label TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championships. Since 1999, CRS has gained international recognition for innovation and organization.      

We are passionately committed to staging great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians and international stars to healthy lifestyle people and charity runners, and to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. Our mission is, “building community through the sport of running.”   

More info: https://canadarunningseries.com/    

Jun 17 2024
0

Announcing the Elite Field for the 2024 Vancouver Half Marathon

By | Elite Athletes, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

Women’s Start List – Half Marathon

First Name Last Name City Province
Natasha Wodak North Vancouver BC
Dayna Pidhoresky Vancouver BC
Emily Andrews Vancouver BC
Andrea  Lee North Vancouver BC
Ellen Pennock Vancouver BC
Jamie Hennessey Burnaby BC
Catrin  Jones Victoria  BC
Sabrina Wilkie Surrey BC
Christine Bant Victoria  BC
Nadine Robinson Vancouver BC
Olivia Law Vancouver BC
Katrina Lim Burnaby BC
Eriko Soma Vancouver BC
Moeko  Sanada  Vancouver  BC

Men’s Start List – Half Marathon

First Name Last Name City Province
Justin Kent Burnaby BC
Derek Scott Vancouver BC
Thibault Mouchart Vancouver BC
David Morrissey Vancouver BC
Drew Nicholson Surrey BC
Carlos Lesser Vancouver BC
Rob Watson Vancouver BC
Sam Wensink Langley BC
Patrick  Sperling Edmonton AB
Jeremiah Ziak Vancouver BC
Gus Amundson Vancouver BC
David Tapia Vancouver, BC
Luis Benitez Vancouver BC 

 

Start List – 5K

First Name Last Name City Province
Ally Ginther Vancouver BC
Jouen Chang Vancouver BC
Lissa Zimmer Vancouver BC
Katherine Watson Vancouver BC
Marley Beckett North Vancouver BC
Ria  Gill Delta BC
First Name Last Name City Province
Nathan Dehghan Vancouver BC
Kyle Kimura Vancouver AB
Caleb Graham Chilliwack BC
Matt Melnick Vancouver BC
Conor Dunne Vancouver BC