Runners on Your Mark: Our Top Race Picks for Fall

By VITA Daily

The fall racing season is here. And whether you’ve been training for your first 10k, a half or full marathon, there’s no shortage of events to choose from. From scenic Victoria to beautiful Prince Edward County, here’s a round-up of some of our top picks. —Aurea Dempsey

• MEC Calgary, October 15

  By VITA Daily

  Talk about a lifestyle brand that knows how to deliver top-notch events. Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is hosting its final event of 2016, “The Grand Banana” which features four distances (5km – 42.2 km) plus a 2km for kids. Course highlights include stunning views along Bow River.

• CIBC Run for the Cure, October 2 – National

  By VITA Daily

  Taking place in more than 60 communities across Canada, the CIBC Run for the Cure is a 5k or 1k walk or run that raises funds for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF). It is the largest single-day, volunteer-led event in Canada in support of breast cancer research. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to put a team together and take part in something life-changing.

• GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon, October 9

  By VITA Daily

  A scenic, often rolling course, it’s hard to top picturesque Victoria as a race destination. Along with the marathon, there’s also a half and 8km for runners of all levels. Course highlights include oceanfront views, picturesque parks, on-course entertainment and lots of spectators.

• Rock ‘n’ Roll Oasis Vancouver Half Marathon, October 22

  By VITA Daily

  For runners looking for a half that’s high on energy and chalk-full of stunning surroundings, this one’s a sure bet. Starting in the downtown core, the route takes you along Vancouver’s epic Seawall with its spectacular ocean and mountain views, in and around Stanley Park and straight to the finish where plenty of food and entertainment await.

• Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, October 16

  By VITA Daily

  For those seeking a Boston qualifier, this is your marathon. Flat, fast and very well organized, Toronto’s Scotiabank marathon is a winner course for both elites and novices. Along with the full, there’s also a half and 5K. Regardless of your distance, expect high energy crowds, on-course entertainment, a big shiny medal and hip souvenir shirt for the bragging – er, wearing.

• Valley Harvest Marathon, Wolfville, N.S., October 9

  By VITA Daily

  Featuring a 5K to ultra 50K, the Valley Harvest has something for all levels. For ultra and marathon runners, they’re opening the start time to 6:30 AM too, which means a faster finish to indulge in post-race turkey and fixings. For the rest of us, there’s plenty to enjoy along the rolling-course, including quaint country roads, apple orchards and farming communities.

• Niagara Falls International Marathon, October 30

  By VITA Daily

  “Everyone finishes at the brink of the Falls” is what the website reads, and what a calling-card. Add the fact this one of the few marathons that starts in one country (USA) and finish in another (Canada), and there’s no denying this course is a special one. It’s also relatively flat, beautifully scenic, very well organized and gives good reason to do some cross-border shopping before the event. Target anyone?

• Prince Edward Island Marathon, Charlottetown, P.E.I., October 16

  By VITA Daily

  A Boston qualifier, with a record 21% achieving such in 2015, the PEI marathon attracts runners from both sides of the border for good reason. Starting in PEI National Park, the course rolls along scenic roads, eventually ending in Charlottetown to cheering crowds and post entertainment. So beautiful is this location, it’s worth spending a weekend or more if your calendar can accommodate.