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Vancouver Half Marathon

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
Jun 26 2023
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The Vancouver Half Marathon Draws Over 4600 and Earns $300,000 for Charity

By | Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

VANCOUVER (June 25, 2023) — “Tough and beautiful” was the consensus for the 25th edition of the Vancouver Half Marathon and 5K, as more than 4,600 participants toed the line on a picture-perfect Pacific North West morning. Runners and walkers were drawn from 9 Canadian provinces and the Yukon Territory, 18 American states and 29 countries worldwide to test their fitness on one of North America’s most scenic courses that plunged from UBC down through Kitsilano. Event #4 in the Canada Running Series (CRS), the 21.1K doubled as the 2023 BC Half Marathon Championships and was part of the prestigious, new Athletics Canada Road Race Series.

Vancouver’s Thomas Nobbs (1:05:16) dominated the men’s field to cross the line more than two minutes ahead of the rest; while Scotland’s Sarah Inglis (1:15:34) held off defending champion Samantha Jory to claim the women’s winning crown. Behind them over 350 participants raised $300,000 for 29 important charities in the Charity Challenge. 

“Incredible day. It never gets old seeing my community, charity runners and everyone in-between run through Vancouver,” said Ryan Chilibeck, Race Director at Canada Running Series West. “The weather, plus everyone’s energy made for a spectacular day of racing with the West Coast’s finest scenery as a backdrop.”   

Rising star Thomas Nobbs got things over early as he broke from a lead pack of six around the 3km mark. By 5km (15:28) he had opened a 15 second gap and cruised down Spanish Banks and Point Grey to the finish in Kitsilano. Kevin Friesen (1:07:33) was the best of the rest, with Coquitlam’s Brendan Wong (1:07:35) just two seconds back in third. Nobbs, Wong, and Josh Kozelj claimed bronze, silver and gold in the BC Championships.  

Last year’s women’s champion Samantha Jory (1:15:51) battled Inglis all the way to the finish line at Museum of Vancouver coming in 17 seconds behind Inglis. Her overall feeling? “It was tough” but she loves this course. The BC Women’s Half Marathon medalists were Inglis, Jory and Julia Hawkins (1:19:26).  

Canada’s Olympic bronze medalist race walker Evan Dunfee (1:25:57) used the event as a final test of fitness before heading to altitude camp in Saint Moritz, hot weather camp in Barcelona and then the World Championships in Budapest in August. “It was ideal race day weather” said Dunfee but unlike the runners, he “enjoyed the uphill more than the down(hill)”. The heat came out to play but runners kept it cool as they cruised through this morning’s race. 

There were smiles all round as this year’s 29 charity partners took home more than $300,000 to benefit many corners of the community throughout the year ahead. Cassie and Friends ($53,534.15) claimed an extra $2500 as top fundraising team. David Porte led the charge in fundraising and collected $41,542.07.

Canada Running Series returns with the Under Armour Eastside 10K on September 24th with online registration now open at: https://canadarunningseries.com/vancouver-eastside-10k/   

For complete results, photos and further information: vancouverhalf.com 

Men’s Half Marathon Winners:  

  1. Thomas Nobbs (1:05:16) 
  2. Kevin Friesen (1:07:33) 
  3. Brendan Wong (1:07:35) 
 Women’s Half Marathon Winners:  

  1. Sarah Inglis (1:15:34) 
  2. Samantha Jory (1:15:31) 
  3. Emily Andrews (1:19:26) 
Men’s 5K Winners: 

  1. Jordan Wilson (16:17) 
  2. Jeremie Queriel (16:27) 
  3. Nikolai Gauer (16:47) 
 Women’s 5K Winners:  

  1. Amber Lam (17:06) 
  2. Jouen Chang (17:36) 
  3. Krysta Boyer (18:19) 

Jun 16 2023
0

Announcing the Elite Field for the 2023 Vancouver Half Marathon

By | Elite Athletes, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

Women’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
F1 Samantha  Jory Vancouver BC
F3 Sarah Inglis Surrey  BC
F6 Kathleen Lawrence Toronto ON
F7 Katherine Watson Vancouver BC
F8 Alison Gill Vancouver BC
F9 Maria Sang Surrey BC
F10 Sarah Carter North Vancouver BC
F11 Jen Millar Victoria  BC
F12 Eriko Soma Vancouver BC
F13 Moeko  Sanada  Vancouver BC
29 Joan Chung Toronto ON

Men’s Start List

Bib Number First Name Last Name City Province
25 Thomas Nobbs Vancouver BC
2 Kevin Coffey  Kingston  ON 
3 Brendan Wong Coquitlam BC
4 Josh Kozelj Coquitlam BC
5 Derek Scott Vancouver  BC
6 Nicolas  Jirot  Abbotsford  BC
7 Adam Buzinsky Vancouver BC
8 Zac Labrie  Vancouver  BC
9 Ron  Loewen Surrey  BC
10 Imran Khoja Vancouver Bc
11 Drew  Nicholson Surrey BC
12 Gus Amundson  Vancouver BC
14 Graham Spry Vancouver  BC
15 Evan Dunfee Richmond BC
17 Jeremiah Ziak Vancouver  BC
18 David Morrissey Vancouver BC
22 Kris Butler Edmonton AB
24 Carlos Lesser Vancouver BC
May 15 2023
0

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

May 18 2022
0

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:

May 10 2022
0

Athletic Brewing Co. join the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and Vancouver Half Marathon as NA Beer Partner

By | TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Vancouver Half Marathon | No Comments

The leading non-alcoholic craft brewery will bring their popular non-alcoholic beers to the World-Renowned Races in 2022.

[May 10, 2022 – Toronto, CAN] – Canada Running Series (CRS) today announces its partnership with craft NA brewery, Athletic Brewing Company, as the official non-alcoholic beer partner of the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, October 16th, and the Vancouver Half Marathon, June 26th. The new deal promises to bring some of Athletic Brewing Company’s flagship non-alcoholic beers to the finish lines of CRS’ two biggest races, allowing participants to celebrate their accomplishments without the risk of a hangover. 

Participants will have a number of opportunities to try the beer in advance of their race, including at scheduled local training runs, through access to exclusive discounts, by attending the Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo or by adding a pack to their purchase when they sign up for the race.

“We’re delighted to welcome Athletic Brewing Company to Canada Running Series,” said CRS President Alan Brookes. “Their commitment to sustainability, to innovation and excellence, and most especially to healthy lifestyles, make them a perfect partner in our continued quest to build community through running. Their award winning, non-alcoholic craft beers will greatly enhance our celebratory, post-race experience and are guaranteed to make our events even more tasty than before. Cheers to an Athletic!”

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, the leading non-alcoholic craft brewer in the U.S., has recently announced the 2022 submission period of its outdoors-focused give back program, Two for the Trails. As the largest donation program of its kind in the outdoors space, Athletic Brewing Company is pledging one million dollars to grantee winners and other partnerships of Two for the Trails in 2022. 

“Athletic Brewing Company is deeply committed to positively impacting our customers’ health, fitness, and happiness which makes this partnership a perfect fit with Canada Running Series”, said Athletic Brewing Company CEO, Bill Shufelt. “We can’t wait to get some Athletic brews in participant’s hands as they cross the finish line to celebrate their achievements on race day in both Toronto and Vancouver!”

Registration is open now for both events. The Vancouver Half Marathon is set for June 26, 2022, and the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon will take place on October 16, 2022. 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.

Press Contact: Jess Fiaschetti | Jess@OutsidePR.com | 415.565.9530

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 2021, CRS raised $4.8 million for 260 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

Named as TIME’s “100 Most Influential Companies of 2022” as well as Fast Company Magazine’s “Brands That Matter” in 2021, Athletic Brewing Company is reimagining beer for the modern, active adult. Their great-tasting craft brews provide a refreshing taste of craft beer, without the alcohol or the hangover. With custom breweries on the east and west coasts, their lineup has earned accolades throughout the industry, even against full-strength beers, including the 2021 US Open Beer Awards Gold medal for Run Wild. Additionally, Athletic Brewing’s “Two for the Trails” initiative donates 2% of all sales to trail and park cleanups and maintenance. Plus, as a part of their IMPACT Program, 1% of revenue goes to non-profit organizations that support positive impact and opportunity from the ground up in their communities. Athletic Brewing’s full portfolio of flagships, seasonal, and specialty brews is available for purchase on its website, www.athleticbrewing.com, as well as the company’s hop-infused sparkling water, DayPack, and subscription offering – The Athletic Club.