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Eastside 10k

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

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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.   

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

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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

Race Day Weather Watch: Preparing for Any Condition with Under Armour

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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.

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

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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!

New partnership between Canada Running Series and CelePLATE

By | Eastside 10k, General, Oasis ZooRun, Spring Run-Off, TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon | No Comments

CelePLATE becomes the official personalized medal engraving provider for all Canada Running Series events through 2024. 

TORONTO, ONTARIO, December 5, 2023 – Canada Running Series (CRS) is pleased to announce a new partnership with CelePLATE, a new Canadian, female-owned business offering personalized laser etched inserts for the back of participants finisher medals.

Participants have the option to purchase an engraved plate which fits nicely into the recess on the back of their race medal or the ribbon clip which is secured onto the ribbon with a custom-made clip. Participants simply collect their race medal at the finish line and their personalized CelePLATE will arrive in the mail within two weeks, laser engraved with their name and finish time.

Expanding on their commitment to sustainability, Canada Running Series is delighted to be working with CelePLATE. “With most of our participants residing in Canada, participants will receive their engraved plate in just a few days and with a much shorter travel distance using a local, Canadian company,” said Charlotte Brookes, National Event Director of CRS. 

“CelePLATE is thrilled to partner with Canada Running Series, providing their participants the opportunity to enhance the race experience and celebrate their achievement with a custom plate insert. With the endorsement of Canada Running Series, a world-class running event organization, CelePLATE is poised to grow our brand presence within the Canadian racing community and play a part in recognizing the hard work and dedication that goes into training and participating in a race.” Chief CelePLATION Officer, Tara Melville adds.

Registration for Canada Running Series 2024 events is now open. Visit https://canadarunningseries.com for more information.

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About Canada Running Series 

Canada Running Series is Canada’s premier road race series, offering seven annual events nationwide. Since 2017, CRS’s flagship event, the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, has served as the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championship race and has doubled as an Olympic qualifier. In 2022, CRS raised $4.2 million for over 240 local charities through the Charity Challenge. 

Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. 

Media Contact:
Ian Cater
Senior Manager of Marketing & Partnerships
ian@canadarunningseries.com 

About CelePLATE

CelePLATE is proudly Canadian. Founded by Race Director and Co-Owner of Run Well Events Inc., Tara Melville, CelePLATE was created to offer Canadian events, from running to triathlon, an alternative to using an overseas supplier for personalized medal inserts. As a Canadian company, orders are delivered quickly, with sustainability in mind. CelePLATE’s head office is located near Guelph, Ontario. 

Media Contact:
Tara Melville
Chief CelePLATION Officer
CelePLATE
tara@runwellevents.com  

 

Thomas Broatch and Andrea Seccafien blaze to the finish at the 10th Anniversary of the Under Armour Eastside 10K

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Over $36,000 has been raised for local charities that support Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

VANCOUVER, September 24, 2023 — The sun shone down this morning as Canada Running Series (CRS) celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Under Armour Eastside 10K, alongside nearly 3000 participants. There was a glow about this race as Thomas Broatch blazed to a 30:02 finish. Canadian Olympian Andrea Seccafien led the way on the women’s side with a finish time of 34:16.

“It’s my favourite day of the year,” said Ryan Chilibeck, Race Director at Canada Running Series. “Seeing the Vancouver run community rally around this race each year, it really means a lot to our team at CRS and our amazing charity partners. I only wish I could run it myself. The energy is electric”.

With over 2800 participants toeing the line today, we also saw 152 moving with us virtually. This race treats runners to a route that is unlike other Vancouver races, touring the runners through a historic and industrial course, in Gastown and Strathcona.

The men’s field played it tight this morning, opting to run as a pack for most of the race. Vancouver’s Broatch broke away at about 8K with Alex Drover, taking turns in the lead before Broatch made his final push. This 10K race is renowned for its grueling “Kill the Hill” segment, an 800m incline push that tests the fitness of runners. “My favourite moment of the race was the downhill. I ran this course last year and was so happy to make it back,” Broatch commented, all hills considered. He is hoping to carry the momentum from this win to his marathon debut at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon in October.

It was an amazing finish in the women’s race with Andrea Seccafien and Glynis Sim battling it out to the finish line, finishing in 34:16 and 34:19 respectively. Vancouver’s own Samantha Jory rounded out the top three, crossing the finish line at 34:42. It was great to see Andrea competing today after relocating to Portland to run with the Bowerman Track Club. With her eyes on the Paris 2024 Olympics, this win should give her some confidence as she looks to qualify for Team Canada.

The 2023 Under Armour Eastside 10K raised over $36,000 this year, which brings our fundraising total to over $250,000 since the races inception. This race is a dedication to the community in the Downtown Eastside and we’re grateful for the continued partnership with local charities: Urban Native Youth Association, Downtown Women’s Eastside Centre, Kids Sport BC, and PHS Community Services Society.

Men’s Winners:
1. Thomas Broatch (30:02)
2. Alex Drover (30:12)
3. Trevor Hofbauer (30:18)
4. Mitch De Lange (30:19)
5. Ryan Tyrell (30:23)

Women’s Winners:
1. Andrea Seccafien (34:16)
2. Glynis Sim (34:19)
3. Samantha Jory (34:42)
4. Kiana Gibson (34:55)
5. Leslie Sexton (35:09)

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

Announcing the Elite Field for the 2023 Under Armour Eastside 10K

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Women’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
F-1 Andrea Seccafien Guelph ON
F-2 Leslie Sexton Vancouver BC
F-3 Dayna Pidhoresky Vancouver BC
F-4 Samantha  Jory Vancouver BC
F-5 Glynis Sim Vancouver  BC
F-6 Kiana Gibson Vancouver BC
F-7 Katrina Sutton-Allison North Vancouver BC
F-8 Andrea Lee North Vancouver BC
F-9 Keila Stark Vancouver BC
F-10 Katherine Watson Vancouver BC
F-11 Charlotte Browning Burnaby BC
F-12 Megan Crocker Whistler  BC
F-13 Kathleen  Saxon  Edmonton  AB
F-14 Maria Sang Surrey BC
F-15 Rozlyn Boutin Vancouver  BC
F-16 Katrina Lim Burnaby BC
F-19 Carley Gering Victoria BC
F-20 Eriko Soma Vancouver BC

Men’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
M-1 Trevor Hofbauer Kelowna BC
M-3 Thomas Broatch Vancouver BC
M-4 Brendan Wong Coquitlam BC
M-5 Matthew  Hope Edmonton AB
M-6 Tyler  Dozzi Vancouver BC
M-7 Alexandre Ricard Squamish BC
M-8 Daniel Molushet Zewdu Victoria BC
M-9 Yemane Mulugeta Surrey BC
M-10 Evan Elder Vancouver BC
M-11 Kevin Friesen Port Coquitlam BC
M-12 Ryan Tyrell Hamilton ON
M-13 James Hoad London UK
M-14 Mitch  de Lange Thornton ON
M-15 Cole Dinsdale Burnaby BC
M-16 Alex Drover Calgary AB
M-17 Logan Arthur Edmonton  AB
M-18 Christian Gravel Vancouver  BC
M-19 Nicolas Jirot Abbotsford  BC
M-20 Julian Meyer Vancouver BC
M-21 Mark Klassen Mission BC
M-22 Riley Stuermer St. Albert AB
M-23 James Lamers Vancouver BC
M-24 Sam Wensink Langley BC
M-25 Ron  Loewen Surrey BC
M-26 Kyle Kimura Vancouver BC
M-27 Adam Buzinsky Vancouver BC
M-28 Michael Barber Victoria BC
M-29 Carlos Lesser Vancouver BC
M-30 Andrew Geiger Vancouver BC
M-31 Matt Melnik Delta BC
M-33 Nikolai Gauer Vancouver BC
M-34 Gus Amundson  Vancouver BC
M-35 Aryou Manouis Edmonton AB
M-36 Fernando  Medina Mossley ON
M-37 Evan Dunfee Richmond BC
M-38 Aven Kifle Surrey BC

Choosing the right footwear: training shoes vs. race day shoes

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As the sun rises on race day, every runner knows that their choice of footwear can make or break their race. The battle between training shoes and race day shoes is a critical decision.

Training shoes are like a reliable companion. These are the shoes that accompany you through your daily preparation for race day. These shoes are designed for durability and support during long training sessions. The UA HOVR™ Machina 3 Clone Running Shoes are built tough for your longest runs, providing extra springy UA HOVR™ cushioning in the toes to help you explode through every step.

The technology within this shoe supports your training from day one. The UA Clone auxetic upper stretches and adapts to your foot shape and stride for a custom 1:1 fit. The responsive UA HOVR™ cushioning reduces impact and returns energy to propel you forward. With a combination of carbon rubber and blown rubber in the outsole that provides strategic durability and a lightweight rebound.

During your preparation for the Under Armour Eastside 10K race, your training shoes are your go-to companions, delivering the necessary support and comfort for your daily runs and helping to prevent injuries leading up to the big day.

When race day arrives, it’s time to introduce the race day shoes. Race day shoes prioritize minimalism, so you can put your training to the test. These shoes are designed for speed and breaking personal records. These shoes are often more lightweight compared to training shoes. Their reduced weight helps to conserve energy and support acceleration throughout the race.

The UA Flow Velociti Elite Running Shoes and UA Velociti 3 Running Shoes were built for speed. The Flow technology eliminates the rubber outsole, creating a more lightweight and seamless ride on any surface, while the sock liner creates enhanced resiliency and bounce with every stride.

If you have the goal of finishing the race, then stick with what you know. Your training shoes will provide the support needed for longer distances.

If a personal record is your goal, then as race day approaches, consider incorporating your race day shoes into your runs. This helps your body adapt to the feel of different shoes, so on race day you will be ready to go all out.

In the end, the choice between training shoes and race day shoes ultimately depends on your goals, and which will help you conquer the course to reach your personal finish line.

Malindi Elmore Breaks Course Record at Tenth Editon of the Under Armour Eastside 10K

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The tenth edition of the Under Armour Eastside 10K, organized by Canada Running Series (CRS), took place today, returning to in-person racing for the first time since 2019. Defending champion and course record holder, Malindi Elmore, broke her own course record in 32:37, while Ben Preisner tied the men’s course record of 29:20, which was set in 2014. 

“It was an incredible feeling to bring this race back to the city after a two-year hiatus,” said Ryan Chilibeck, Race Director at Canada Running Series. “The goal of the UA Eastside 10K is and has always been to celebrate Vancouver’s local running community and the neighbourhoods we run through. This race operates in tremendous support of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside community, and we’re proud to have hit a new fundraising record for our four incredible charity partners.” 

2,042 participants took part in the in-person race, with another 213 registered for the virtual 10K or virtual 1K Kids Run. Unique among the city’s many races, the UA Eastside 10K takes racers through the heart of East Vancouver, from the city’s Gastown neighbourhood and through Strathcona on this out-and-back course. 

From early on, defending champion and women’s course record holder, Malindi Elmore, lead the race before breaking her previous course record of 32:42, which had been set in 2019. Vancouver’s Leslie Sexton was close behind, crossing the finish line in 34:11, followed by the Vancouver Half Marathon winner Samantha Jory in 34:58.  

“I felt really good off the line,” said Elmore, who maintained a steady lead throughout the race. “I ran a PB so that’s always awesome.” Referring to her training as she builds for her upcoming marathon, she noted, “I’ve done nothing this fast, but on the day, the strength is there.” 

The elite men had a tight race, with Olympians Ben Preisner and Trevor Hofbauer pushing each other throughout much of the course. In the end, Preisner broke ahead to take gold. Hofbauer placed second in 29:26 and Thomas Broatch finished in third place in 30:00.   

“It’s always a great run locally here in Vancouver, so I’m very grateful for all the organizers who put it together for us,” said Preisner, who admitted he wasn’t confident about securing the win. “Trevor is a very good competitor and he was always on my shoulder. It was a good incentive to keep pushing hard. I don’t think there was ever a place where I was super comfortable.” 

Malindi, Sexton, and Hofbauer will be building off the momentum from their strong finishes today as they prepare for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon on October 16, 2022.  

The 2022 Under Armour Eastside 10K has raised over $31,860 to date, surpassing the event’s previous fundraising record of $30,022, which was set in 2015. Dedicated to supported Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside community, this race has partnered with four local charities: CLICK – Contributing to Lives of Inner City Kids, Urban Native Youth Association, Downtown Women’s Eastside Centre, and PHS Community Services Society. With a focus on creating sustainable events, Canada Running Series has also partnered with two environmentally focused charities, Trees for Life and Trans Canada Trail. The deadline to donate to the official charity partners is September 30, 2022.  

Men’s Winners:

  1. Ben Preisner – 29:20
  2. Trevor Hofbauer – 29:26
  3. Thomas Broatch – 30:00
  4. Luc Bruchet – 30:16
  5. Josh Kozelj – 31:13

Women’s Winners:

  1. Malindi Elmore – 32:37
  2. Leslie Sexton – 34:11
  3. Sam Jory – 34:58
  4. Andrea Lee – 35:59
  5. Ally Ginther – 36:12

For more information about the Under Armour Eastside 10K, please visit the website: eastside10k.ca.  To download a PDF of the press release, please find it HERE

Race Day Essentials for the 2022 Under Armour Eastside 10K

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The countdown is on for this year’s Under Armour Eastside 10K, back in person on September 17 through Vancouver’s historic Gastown neighbourhood. We’re rounding up our top race day essentials to help you stay focused to the finish and crush your PB!

Cool, calm and comfortable:

Feeling the pressure? Don’t sweat it. Running gear from the Iso-Chill product line by our sponsor Under Armour feels cool to the touch, with sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric to keep you ultra comfortable. The Iso-Chill Run 2-in-1 Shorts feature built-in mesh inner shorts to disperse body heat so you can breeze past the other runners.

Rain or shine:

The only way to really beat the forecast is to come prepared for any type of weather. A packable, water-repellent jacket like the Under Armour Run Anywhere Storm Jacket and the lightweight, breathable UA Shadow Run Adjustable Cap will keep you covered.

New best pace:

We know you’ve got it in you. Hit your stride and log a new best pace with shoes that put in work for you. The Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind 2 grips the ground with a rubberless sole that feels super lightweight and comfortable, sending you soaring over the finish line.

A photo finish:

Show the people what they want! Whether you’re participating virtually or in person, share your favourite #UAEastside10k moments on social media to show the world why the Under Armour Eastside 10K is the best run in Vancouver.

Who you are supporting:

The 2022 Under Armour Eastside 10K proudly supports the Vancouver community by working with four local charity partners – The Downtown Eastside Women’s CentreCLICK – Contributing to Lives of Inner City KidsPHS Community Services Society and the Urban Native Youth Association. Learn more about how you can help fundraise for our Eastside charities.