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

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

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.

Race Day Essentials for the 2023 Under Armour Toronto 10K

By | General, Toronto Waterfront 10K, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

The countdown is on for this year’s Under Armour Toronto 10K. 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 Rush Woven Anorak and the lightweight, breathable Iso-Chill Launch Run 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 insanely light UA HOVR Sonic 6 provides added comfort, breathability and cushioning for extensive performance, so you can make the distance without irritation.

 

 

A photo finish:

Show the people what they want! Whether you’re participating virtually or in person, share your favourite #UAToronto10k moments on social media to show the world why the Under Armour Toronto 10K is the best run in the city.

Who you are supporting:

The 2023 Under Armour Toronto 10K proudly supports the Toronto community by working with our local charity partner – KidSport Canada, a national not-for-profit organization, that works to remove financial barriers preventing kids from playing sports. Learn more about how you can help fundraise.

We hope these race day essentials help you feel cool, calm, and comfortable from start to finish. Don’t forget to gear up, conquer the distance, and leave your mark on the 2023 Under Armour Toronto 10K by sharing your favorite moments on social media using #UAToronto10k.

 

Meet Your ASICS Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Training Tips, Uncategorised, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

2023 Vancouver Half Marathon – ASICS PACER TEAM

 

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

As in previous years, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2023 ASICS Pacer Team at the Vancouver Half Marathon: Read More

Le 21K de Montréal couronne Mohamed Aagab et Elissa Legault / 21K de Montréal crownes Mohamed Aagab and Elissa Legault

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Plus de 3500 participants se sont alignés sur une des trois lignes de départ du 21K de Montréal, la deuxième étape du Canada Running Series 2023. 

Les coureurs du demi-marathon ont sillonné les îles Ste-Hélène et Notre-Dame du parc Jean-Drapeau sous des conditions météorologiques presque qu’idéales : 13C et généralement ensoleillé. Le parcours composé de quatre boucles différentes a permis aux nombreux spectateurs de voir et d’encourager les participants à plusieurs occasions. De nombreux sites d’encouragements, animés par des équipes de course, étaient dispersés sur le parcours. 

Mohamed Aagab de Campbellton, NB (1h05min42) et Elissa Legault de Mascouche, QC (1h12min25) ont confirmé leur niveau de forme de ce début de saison en remportant leur course de façon convaincante. 

Chez les hommes un groupe de 6 coureurs s’est détaché du peloton dès le 4ième kilomètre. Au 14ième kilomètre, le groupe s’était effrité à 3 coureurs : Mohamed Aagab, Alexander Maxwell d’Ottawa et Moussab Hadout de Montréal. C’est au 18ième kilomètre que tout s’est joué, Aagab a poussé une vive accélération pour distancer ses partenaires d’échappée, c’est cette décision stratégique qui lui a valu la victoire. 

Chez les femmes, Elissa Legault a mené la course de bout en bout sans regarder derrière. À la conquête du record québécois du demi-marathon qu’elle détenait jusqu’en mars dernier, elle a pu travailler avec un groupe d’hommes pour de nombreux kilomètres, mais l’arrivée du vent à la mi-course a contrecarré ses plans. Au final, elle devançait par plus de quatre minutes Maria Zambrano de Calgary, AB (1h16min56) et Alex Castonguay de Boisbriand, QC (1h17min40). 

L’énergie et l’enthousiasme des participants et des spectateurs étaient palpables en cette matinée de célébrations pour la communauté de course à pied et les 45 organismes de bienfaisance du défi caritatif du Canada Running Series. L’événement a permis d’amasser près de 500 000$ pour différentes causes faisant de l’événement la plus grande course de collecte de fonds au Québec; la collecte de dons se poursuivra jusqu’au 31 mai. 

Le 21K fut suivi par les 10K et 5K de Montréal. Isaac Fraser (32min21) et Katherine Labelle Nguyen (40min23) ont remporté la victoire au 10 km. Mackenzie Bauer (15min35) et Nina Gunther (17min27) furent les gagnants du 5 km. 

La prochaine étape du Canada Running Series se déroulera le 17 juin prochain pour le Toronto Waterfront 10K, avant de se diriger vers l’Ouest pour le Demi-marathon de Vancouver le 25 juin. Les inscriptions et la collecte de fonds en-ligne sont ouvertes sur www.RunCRS.ca
 

Pour les résultats complets du 21K de Montréal voir sportstats.ca. Les photos seront affichées sur la page d’accueil de l’événement. 

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More than 3500 participants lined up to race on April 22 at the 21K in Montreal, the second stop of the 2023 Canada Running Series. 

The half marathon runners crisscrossed the Ste-Hélène and Notre-Dame islands of Parc Jean-Drapeau under almost ideal weather conditions: 13C and generally sunny. 

Mohamed Aagab from Campbellton, NB (1:05:42) and Elissa Legault from Mascouche, QC (1:12:25) confirmed their level of form at the start of the season by winning their races in convincing fashion. 

In the men’s category, a group of 6 runners broke away from the field after the kilometer 4, but by the 14th kilometer, the group was down to 3 runners: Mohamed Aagab, Alexander Maxwell from Ottawa and Moussab Hadout from Montreal. It was at the 18th kilometer that everything was decided, Aagab surged with a decisive burst to distance himself from the pack, a strategic decision that earned him the victory. 

Among the women, Elissa Legault led the race from start to finish without looking back. She was attempting to break the Quebec half marathon record that she held until this past March. She was able to work with a group of men for a lot of the race, but the wind picked up at the halfway point and her record attempt was foiled. In the end, she was ahead by more than four minutes on Maria Zambrano from Calgary, AB (1:16:56) and Alex Castonguay from Boisbriand, QC (1:17:40). 

The energy of the participants and spectators was palpable, considered a huge celebration for the local running community and the 45 charity partners of the Canada Running Series Charity Challenge. The event is fast approaching it’s goal of $500,000 raised for various causes, making the event the largest fundraising race in Quebec. Fundraising will continue until May 31st. 

The 21K was followed by the 10K and 5K in Montreal. Isaac Fraser (32:21)and Katherine Labelle Nguyen (40:23) won the 10 km. Mac Bauer (15:35) and Nina Gunther (17:27) were the winners of the 5 km. 

The next leg of the Canada Running Series takes place on June 17 for the Toronto Waterfront 10K, before heading west for the Vancouver Half Marathon on June 25. Online registration and fundraising is open at www.RunCRS.ca 

For complete 21K de Montréal results, here is the link to Sportstats. Photos will be posted soon on the event homepage. 

Athletic Brewing Company continues partnership with Canada Running Series, Named Official Non-Alcoholic Beer of 3 Marquee Races

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America’s largest non-alcoholic craft brewery will bring its award-winning brews to the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Vancouver Half Marathon, and Under Armour Toronto 10K

TORONTO, CAN – March 22, 2023 – Athletic Brewing Company, America’s leading producer of non-alcoholic craft beer, has renewed its partnership with Canada Running Series (CRS), today announcing its return as the official non-alcoholic beer partner of the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and the 2023 Vancouver Half Marathon. Additionally, Athletic Brewing Company will be the official non-alcoholic beer partner of the 2023 Under Armour Toronto 10K. 

Athletic Brewing Company’s flagship brews will be served at the finish lines of all three marquee CRS races, allowing participants to celebrate their accomplishments without compromise. Participants will also have a chance to sample Athletic Brewing’s award-winning brews before race day at scheduled local training runs and during the Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo. Runners will also have the option to purchase 6-packs of Athletic Brewing when registering for the race and have access to exclusive discounts.

“We’re delighted that Athletic Brewing Company is once again working with Canada Running Series,” said CRS National Event Director Charlotte Brookes. “Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence, and most especially to mindful lifestyles, makes them a perfect partner in our continued quest to build community through running. Their award-winning, non-alcoholic craft beers will continue to greatly enhance our celebratory, post-race experiences and make our events even tastier than before!”

With standing global partnerships with IRONMAN and Spartan Race, Athletic Brewing Company has a deep-rooted commitment to the world of outdoor sport and adventure. Athletic Brewing Company donated to five Canadian trail organizations in 2022 through its Two For The Trails program, which gives back up to $2 million annually to protect and restore outdoor spaces.  

“We’re super excited to be back at this year’s races in Toronto and Vancouver,” said Athletic Brewing Co-Founder and CEO Bill Shufelt. “Canadians have embraced Athletic in a big way and we want to make sure we are at the finish line to greet them and toast their accomplishments once again.” 

Registration is open now for all three events. The Under Armour Toronto 10K will take place on June 17, 2023. The Vancouver Half Marathon is set for June 25, 2023, and the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon will take place on October 15, 2023. With hybrid events here for the foreseeable future, each event will offer all distances virtually as well.

For more information on Canada Running Series events, please visit www.canadarunningseries.com.

For more information on Athletic Brewing Company, please visit www.athleticbrewing.ca.

For press inquiries please contact:

Canada Running Series: Kelly Dekoning|kelly@canadarunningseries.com | 289.700.2435

Athletic Brewing Company: Chris Furnari | press@athleticbrewing.com

 

###

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 the Olympic trials. 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.

About Athletic Brewing Company


Athletic Brewing, founded in 2017 by Bill Shufelt and John Walker, is America’s leading producer of non-alcoholic craft beer. In 2022, Athletic was ranked as the 26th fastest-growing private company in America by Inc. Magazine, named one of TIME’s “100 Most Influential Companies,” and featured on Fortune’s “Change the World” list. Athletic was also selected as one of Ad Age’s Top 20 Hottest Brands of 2022 and appeared on Fast Company’s “Brands That Matter” list in 2021. The company has won dozens of prestigious brewing awards and was named the North American Brewer of the Year at the 2022 International Beer Challenge. Athletic has custom breweries on the east and west coasts and donates up to $2 million of all sales to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces across the globe via its Two For The Trails program. Plus, as a part of its IMPACT Program, 1% of revenue goes to non-profit organizations that support positive impact and opportunity from the ground up. As of 2022, Athletic Brewing is proudly a Certified B Corporation™. Its full-flavored non-alcoholic beers are available for purchase on www.athleticbrewing.ca.

Organika Joins the Canada Running Series as the Collagen and Supplement Partner

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Canada’s Number One selling collagen powder company will bring their focus to help people love living healthier lives to the World-Renowned Races in 2023 and beyond

TORONTO, CAN – March 22, 2023 – Organika today announces its partnership with Canada Running Series (CRS), as the official collagen and supplement partner of their series of races, including the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, October 15th. The new deal promises to bring Canada’s number one selling collagen to the finish lines of CRS’ races, allowing participants to start their recovery process right at the finish line.

Participants will have a number of opportunities to try the collagen in advance of their race, including at scheduled local training runs, through access to exclusive discounts, or by attending the Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo.

“We’re delighted to welcome Organika to Canada Running Series,” said CRS National Event Director Charlotte Brookes.

“Their commitment to providing the best in natural health make them a perfect partner in our continued quest to build community through running. Like CRS, Organika are a Canadian owned and operated, family business that provides its customers with a quality product that you can trust. We look forward to a long partnership!”

What started as a small range of supplements has grown into an always-evolving collection of products, that range from supporting hydration, immunity, stress, skin health, and more. Organika is one of the most well-known, trusted brands in the Canadian health and wellness space. With over 30 years of experience, Organika is dedicated to delivering high-quality customer care while leading with best-in-class innovation, and committed to a singular mission – helping people live healthy.

“From day one, Organika has been meeting all people where they are at along their health journey, it is an honour to support Canadian Running Series in pursuit to help build healthy communities within the running space,” said Organika Health Products Inc. CEO, Aaron Chin. “We look forward to cheering participants on race day and providing natural health and wellness products along the way!”

Registration is open now for all events. The Spring Run-Off is set for April 1, 2023, the Under Armour Toronto 10K will happen on June 17, 2023, the Vancouver Half Marathon is set for June 25, 2023, the Oasis ZooRun is set for September 16, 2023, the Under Armour Eastside 10K is set for September 24, 2023 and the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon will take place on October 15, 2023. With hybrid events here for the foreseeable future, each event will offer all distances virtually as well.

For more information on Canada Running Series events, please visit www.canadarunningseries.com.

Media Contact: Kelly Dekoning, Communications Coordinator, Canada Running Series
kelly@canadarunningseries.com | 289.700.2435

For more information on Organika, please visit: www.organika.com.

Press Contact: Krista Cline | mailto:Krista.Cline@organika.com| 604.340.2259

###

 

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 the Olympic trials. In 2022, CRS raised $4.2 million for over 240 local charities through their Charitable efforts.

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.

 

About Organika

What started as a small range of supplements has grown into an always-evolving collection of products, that range from supporting hydration, immunity, stress, skin health, and more. Organika is one of the most well-known, trusted brands in the Canadian health and wellness space. With over 30 years of experience,

Organika is dedicated to delivering high-quality customer care while leading with best-in-class innovation, and committed to a singular mission – helping people live healthy.

Website: www.organika.com

Social: @organikahealth

Under Armour to become title partner of the Toronto 10K

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Under Armour to become title partner of the Toronto 10K

(formerly known as the Toronto Waterfront 10K)

November 16, 2022, TORONTO – Canada Running Series (CRS) is delighted to announce that Under Armour will be taking over the title partnership of the Under Armour Toronto 10K (formerly the Toronto Waterfront 10K). In addition, Under Armour will continue its title partnership of the Under Armour Eastside 10K in Vancouver. Under Armour will outfit volunteers, event staff and the pacer program with footwear and apparel. As part of the partnership, MapMyRunwill provide Under Armour Toronto 10K and Under Armour Eastside 10K participants with access to leading strength, training and stretching programs ahead of each race.

“We are thrilled to welcome Under Armour to the title sponsor position of the Under Armour Toronto 10K. Through the Under Armour Eastside 10K, the brand has been empowering athletes in Vancouver since 2017,” says Charlotte Brookes, National Event Director at Canada Running Series. “We can’t wait for Under Armour to bring its product innovation to Toronto’s picturesque waterfront and introduce exciting new energy to the Under Armour Toronto 10K.”

Charitable partner:

As part of Under Armour’s commitment to providing youth access to sport, all fundraising at the Under Armour Toronto 10K will go towards KidSport Toronto. KidSport supports children who need financial assistance with sport registration fees and equipment costs.

“Under Armour believes everyone deserves the opportunity to engage in sports. That’s why, earlier this year, we made a long-term commitment of our resources, focus and energy to help break down barriers that limit access to sports across the globe, says Flynn Burch, Director of Global Community Impact at Under Armour. “Recognizing cost as one of the greatest barriers around the globe and specifically impacting 1 in 3 youth in Canada, we were impressed by the work of KidSport and excited to partner to provide more opportunities for young people in sports across the country.”

Registration:

Registration for the 2023 Under Armour Toronto 10K will open on Tuesday, November 22nd, with the race taking place on Saturday, June 17th. The 2023 Under Armour Eastside 10K is scheduled for September, and registration will be opening on December 6th.

For more information on Canada Running Series events, please visit canadarunningseries.com.

For more information on Under Armour, please visit: underarmour.ca

For more information on KidSport, please visit: www.kidsportcanada.ca

Meet Your ASICS Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Training Tips, Uncategorised, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

2022 Vancouver Half Marathon – ASICS PACER TEAM

 

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

As in previous years, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2022 ASICS Pacer Team at the Vancouver Half Marathon:

Pace Time: 1:30
Name: Ellis (@run.ellis.run)
Why Ellis is pacing:

Since getting into running I have completed 2 world marathon majors (my goal is to run all six) and have taken my half marathon time from 1:40 to under 1:16. Although traditionally focused on the racing part I’m excited about the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much and trade racing duties for pacing duties. Running has given me a purpose, a career, and ambition to set audacious goals. I would be honoured to help others reach their goals by pacing.

 

Pace Time: 1:30
Name: Humphrey (@Humphreyontherun)
Why Humphrey is pacing:

I want to help pace runners from my run club and the community!

 

 

 

Pace Time: 1:40
Name: Emily (@emilysmac)
Why Emily is pacing:

In 2018, I ran my first marathon and I have been hooked ever since! I love running and want to give back to the incredible running community here in Vancouver! ♥️🎉

 

 

Pace Time: 1:45
Name: Julie (@Northshorepelly )
Why Julie is pacing:

I am a mom of two and running is my happy place. The sport and local running community has given me so much – and I love giving back to it. I am an avid marathoner, but the half-marathon, in my opinion, is the absolute best race distance! I am so excited to help others achieve a personal goal they didn’t think possible. Let’s go!

 

Pace Time: 1:45
Name: Julia (@jhawkinss)
Why Julia is pacing:

I am a previous UBC Track athlete that specialized in heptathlons and jumps (aka nothing over 800) but in my late 20s I discovered my love for marathon training! I adore the Vancouver running community and also recognize the importance of a strong pacer. It would be my honour to show some runners their way to a new PB. 🙂

 

Pace Time: 1:50
Name: Jill (@Westonjill)
Why Jill is pacing:

I’ve always wanted to pace and help people reach their goals – plus I’m super steady! I used to be a run coach and trainer with lots of passion for the community. Let’s GOOOOO!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:00
Name: Kate (@coach.kate_fitness)
Why Kate is pacing:

My name is Kate and I’m one of runnings biggest fans! I am a personal trainer, physiotherapist and group fitness instructor – I am great at motivating people working towards a fitness goal. I have always dreamt of being a pacer as so many pacers have motivated me to reach my time goal when running. 🙂

 

 

Pace Time: 2:00
Name: Ese (@essxkayy)
Why Ese is pacing:

I love running. I love running events! I would love to be on the pacer team as I love connecting with the running community and pushing through self limitations and barriers with friends. I think it would be fun to help people meet or beat their goals and run alongside them while they do it.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:10
Name: Rabih (@striderzclub)
Why Rabih is pacing:

I’m a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor and running coach for the Striderz Club. Nothing makes me happier than helping and seeing runners crushing their goals and crossing the finish line within their target time. That’s why I want to be your pacer!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:10
Name: Karl (@karls20160815)
Why Karl is pacing:

I’m on my way to completing all six World Major Marathons! I would love to be a pacer at the Vancouver Half Marathon to motivate others & contribute to local race events like this.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:20
Name: Christy (@christybaker9779)
Why Christy is pacing:

Back for another year of Vancouver Half Marathon pacing! I am a mom of 2 and teach Physical Education at a West Van high school. I’d like to use this experience to encourage others to obtain their goals and to to inspire my students.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:20
Name: Harjinder (@Mrhdhaliwal )
Why Harjinder is pacing:

I’m a teacher that promotes active living. I have a running club at school and hopefully some of them will run their first half. If you’re looking to run a 2:20, I am responsible, energetic, and reliable!

 

 

Pace Time: 2:30
Name: Kat (@Katanacious )
Why Kat is pacing::

This is one of my favourite races. I have paced for Canada Running Series before and it is still one of my favourite running memories. I loved getting to talk to people as they ran their race and getting to support them. It was fun to make the race about cheering them on and helping them to reach their goals.

 

 

Pace Time: 2:30
Name: Shelley (@shelchen7)
Why Shelley is pacing:

As a proud member of  the Canada Running Series Community Team, I would love the opportunity to represent them while also allowing others to achieve their goals!

 

 

 

All Pacers will be outfitted in shoes & athletic apparel from:

Under Armour Spring Run-Off 8K: Women’s Preview 

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The 45th edition of Toronto’s oldest race promises maple syrup, bagpipes, and a great women’s elite race with track specialists, road warriors, and Sasha Gollish, who is a bit of both

TORONTO, April 7, 2022 — Since the last time she raced in the Under Armour Spring Run-Off in 2014 and finished third, Sasha Gollish has excelled in disciplines far shorter and longer than eight kilometres.

As recently as February of this year, the Toronto-based athlete ran 1:14:11 at the First Half half marathon in Vancouver, before shifting gears and setting a world record in the women’s 40+ indoor mile in 4:38.73 two weeks later. She attributes part of her strong start to the year to a newfound love for Nordic skiing, which she does on the trails near her cottage in the Wasaga region, 90 minutes north of Toronto.

“I’m desperately holding on to winter,” said Gollish. “I love skiing; it’s fun and it made me stronger physically. My best seasons as an elite have been when I was doing different things to supplement my running and playing to other strengths.”

The professional engineer surprised even herself by racing so well this early in the year – she broke the world record before even making any spring racing plans.

“A part of me was shocked,” said Gollish. “I’m definitely in better shape than I thought – that mile was like doing a workout with friends.”

But racing still feels unfamiliar to her, following two years of sporadic lockdowns. Gollish said her objective for this year’s Spring Run-Off is simply to get into the groove of competing again.

“I’m emerging to top form, but I’m not there yet. My goal is to nail the preparation and properly getting to the start line. That means showing up prepared to compete without pressure for place, time or outcome…reintegrating racing into our new normal.”

Gollish will contend for the title with a handful of women, who will include current Canadian National 10K Champion Leslie Sexton. The Markham native and Vancouver resident is coming off her best year of training and racing, in which she won the 2021 Athletics Canada 10K Championship on Toronto’s waterfront in 32:04, and later became the sixth fastest female marathoner in Canadian history by running 2:28.35 at the Philadelphia Marathon.

Toronto-born rising star, Alexandra Lucki, will also challenge for the win, despite being just two weeks removed from representing Canada at the Pan-American Cross-Country Cup, where she finished seventh in the open women’s race. Lucki, a University of Maryland and NCAA alumna with a 4:34 mile and 9:01 3,000m, showed promise on the roads last fall by finishing fourth at the Canadian 10K Championship in 33:58. Cleo Boyd of Kingston, meanwhile, will come to the start line just months removed from personal bests of 15:57 and 33:02 in the 5,000m and 10,000m.

The rest of the women’s elite field combines youth and experience. Recent U SPORTS All-Canadians and now post-collegiate athletes Jenn Dowling-Medley of Montreal and Kristina Popadich of Toronto will both make their Spring Run-Off debut. Dowling-Medley was tenth at the Canadian cross-country championship last fall, while Popadich finished 26th.

Laura Desjardins, meanwhile, will try to reclaim the podium after finishing second at the Spring Run-Off’s 2018 edition. The Toronto-based athlete ran the Houston Half Marathon in 1:15:45 earlier this year, and was just two places and 11 seconds behind Lucki at last year’s Canadian 10K Championship.

Brittany Moran, also of Toronto, returns to High Park’s elite start line for the first time since 2015. The chiropractor should challenge for the medals, too, after posting a massive personal best of 2:33:37 in the marathon last fall, and then a third-place finish at the Around the Bay Road Race two weeks ago.

Canada Running Series Race Director, Alan Brookes, said the race is Sexton’s to lose, but that predicting the rest of the finishing order feels like an impossible task.

“One of the most intriguing things about the COVID-19 interlude is that we don’t know how it’s affected different athletes,” he said. “Who’s fit? Who was too unmotivated to train with no in-person races? We’ll find out on April 9th.”

Brookes said he is thrilled that Toronto’s oldest ongoing race is back this year, with its iconic Canadian traditions: piper Dave MacGonigal leading everyone to the start lines; fresh maple syrup awards from Madawaska Maple Products; the King and Queen of The Hill competition; the Kardia Athletica crew cheer zone on Spring Road Hill and Rogue Runners on Centre Road. Participants will also be raising $60,000 for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and are invited to reward themselves at the post-race pancake breakfast in support of the High Park Nature Centre.

Information on the elite race and complete Women’s Start List can be found here: https://canadarunningseries.com/spring-run-off/elites-and-prizing/

About The Under Armour Spring Run-Off

Date: Saturday April 9, 2022

8K Start Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: High Park, Toronto

For media access on race day, please contact Sam O’Neill, Marketing and Communications Coordinator at sam@canadarunningseries.com

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 Gold 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/

Under Armour Spring Run Off 8k: Men’s Preview

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Photo credit: Todd Fraser/Canada Running Series 

It’s opening day for Canada Running Series and the 45th edition of Toronto’s oldest race promises a battle for the men’s crown with 3-time champ Tristan Woodfine absent for the first time since 2016. Some exciting up-and-comers to take on wily veterans.

Lee Wesselius is still getting used to racing with a target on his back.

Things have not been quite the same for the New Brunswick-born veterinarian since last fall, when he finished seventh at the Canadian 10km Championships in 29:13, and then followed that with a silver medal performance and 12-minute personal best of 2:16:37 at the Indianapolis Marathon. Wesselius, then a relative unknown unencumbered by the weight of expectation, had run the third fastest marathon by a Canadian in 2021. Now, as he prepares to challenge a youthful and hungry men’s field at his first ever Under Armour Spring Run-Off, he knows his competitors will not take his presence lightly.

“Though I still think that, to an extent, I’m unknown,” said the 28-year-old Wesselius, who lives and trains in Kemptville, 40 minutes south of Ottawa. “I’m still an underdog, but I don’t think people will be that surprised anymore if I’m still hanging in with one kilometre to go.”

Wesselius has been logging regular 160-kilometre weeks for much of the past year, covering most of his mileage between the end of his work day and dinner time. Lately, he mostly runs alone due to an injury to his training partner Blair Morgan. The relative isolation has made him eager to compete and test his fitness against that of others on Saturday.

“I’ll just put myself in a position to win and see if that unfolds or not,” he said. “I’ve been feeling solid in training just by myself, but I know it won’t be easy.”

Wesselius’ top challenger on High Park’s hills could be Jeremy Coughler, an Indiana University alumnus now training with the Bandits Elite club in London, Ontario. The 26-year-old chiropractor got the best of Wesselius last fall in the Canadian 10km Championships, beating him by nine seconds and finishing fourth overall in a time of 29:04 – just 22 seconds off the winning time. Coughler is the only runner in this year’s elite field to have broken 14 minutes over 5,000m, which makes him a threat in any sprint finish.

Kyle Grieve, meanwhile, comes into the race more familiar with the Spring Run-Off’s course than any other top contender. The Toronto-based athlete has finished third in the race’s last two editions of 2018 and 2019, covering the hilly course in 24:50 and 24:48, respectively. Coughler and Wesselius both beat Grieve when the trio last raced each other at the Canadian 10km Championships in 2021, where Grieve’s time of 29:43 was good enough for 12th place.

The absence of three-time defending champion Tristan Woodfine may make Coughler, Wesselius and Grieve the favourites to succeed him, but a 21-man-deep elite field filled with wily veterans and rising stars could open the door to surprises. Kevin Coffey, the Kingston-based 2:20:22 marathoner who has made road podiums for the better part of the last decade, comes to the Spring Run-Off start line with great momentum. In late March, he bested Olympian Reid Coolsaet at the Around the Bay Road Race in Hamilton, finishing the 30k race in 1:40:10.

Also challenging the leaders will be 24-year-old recent McMaster University graduate Dylan Alick, who finished just seven seconds behind Coffey at the Canadian 10km Championships last October in 30:19. Meanwhile, the 2019 Spring Run-Off runner-up Adam Hortian, as well as the best-selling author of Endure: Mind, Body and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance, Alex Hutchinson, will add texture and experience to the field.

“This year promises a wide-open contest with the absence of defending champion Tristan Woodfine,” said Canada Running Series race director Alan Brookes. “It’s the wily veterans like Hortian and Coffey versus the up-and comers like Coughler, Wesselius and Grieve. Throw in Quebec’s François Jarry into the mix to shake things up amongst Ontarians and we’ve got a race!”

For information on the elite race including complete Men’s Start List, visit: https://canadarunningseries.com/spring-run-off/elites-and-prizing/

About The Under Armour Spring Run-Off

Date: Saturday April 9, 2022

8K Start Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: High Park, Toronto

For media access on race day, please contact Sam O’Neill, Marketing and Communications Coordinator at sam@canadarunningseries.com

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 Gold 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/