Local races

RUN, BIKE, SWIM, CLIMB OR CRAWL TO THE FINISH LINE AT THESE SUMMER RACE EVENTS

By Graham Acreman

Ottawa and the surrounding area offers one of the highest per capita number of races in North America. On almost every weekend from now through the summer a wide range of events – running, cycling, triathlons or obstacle course races – mean there’s something for every- one. Here’s a look at what’s on offer.

SPORTING LIFE 10K – MAY 10

This is the inaugural race in support of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, and takes place along Colonel By Drive. The course is flat and fast and organizers hope to make it one of the most popular new events in Ottawa.

OTTAWA EARLY BIRD TRIATHLON AND DUATHLON – MAY 16

If you’ve ever thought of trying out a triathlon this is the race for you. Brought to you by Somersault, a dynamic Ottawa race organizer, Early Bird has triathlons, duathlons and runs. The swim portion of the triathlon is at the Carleton University pool, and the cycle course is along traffic-free Colonel By Drive. All types of bikes are welcome.

RIDEAU LAKES BIKE TOUR – JUNE 6-7

Though not technically a race, this cycling tour is now in its 44th year and it sells out every year. Cyclists have two primary choices: Ottawa to Kingston return (three routes, 177, 188 and 220 kilometres each way) or Perth to Kingston return (100 kilometres each way). The 177k route and the 100k Perth route are fully supported with rest stations approximately every 40 kilometres.

PERTH KILT RUN – JUNE 20

Held in downtown Perth, organizers say it’s the largest kilt run in the world. An eight-kilometre run is the primary race and you have to wear a kilt. The race features seven rest stations, free post-race beer, music and entertainment, and a grand prize of a round trip to Scotland.

MEC OTTAWA RACE 3 – JUNE 21

Held in Carp, Ont., this event features a fiveand 10-kilometre runs and a half-marathon on rolling country roads. These races are a bargain, with a fee of only $15 for the fiveand ten-kilometre runs, and $20 for the half marathon.

BRING ON THE BAY, 3-KILOMETRE OPEN-WATER SWIM – JULY 11

This is an open-water swim across Britannia Bay that starts at the Nepean Sailing Club and finishes at the Britannia Yacht Club.

GRANFONDO OTTAWA – JULY 25

Offering cycling routes of 65, 100, 170 and 220 kilometres, the GranFondo Ottawa has grown in popularity since its inception several years ago. It combines fun, hard work and a festive atmosphere with the look and feel of a tour event – a hyped-up start, feedzones, pelotons, breakaways, and food and drink when it’s over.

K-TOWN TRIATHLON – AUGUST 2

This downtown Kingston event features short- and long-course triathlon and duathlon races. The long-course one starts with a swim in Kingston Harbour, a ride on mainly rolling hills and a run with flat spots and medium hills. This is a popular and well-organized event, so book early for accommodation if you’re planning to stay overnight.

SPARTAN BEAST – AUGUST 9

The Spartan “Beast” in Mont-Ste-Marie, Que. is one of the most grueling courses in the Spartan family. The 20-kilometre, hilly course features 26 obstacles to challenge

9RUNRUN – OCTOBER 17

This is the Ottawa emergency services run (9RunRun, 9-1-1, get it?). It takes place in Stittsville and features a half marathon, a 10-kilometre, and two-kilometre “family” event. Lots of fun and entertainment and the Chiefs’ Chili Cook Off.

Check out Raceclicks.com for similar events all across North America. 

Bojan Uzicanin

MEC RACE SERIES OTTAWA Everything you need: low entry fees, chip timed results and fi nish line festivities.

May 2 Wesley Clover Parks 5K/10K June 21 Carp 5K/10K/ Half marathon July 5 Camp Fortune 3K/ 5K/10K Trail races July 19 Gatineau Park 6K/15K/30K/50K Trail races Sept 12 Rideau Carleton Raceway 5K/10K/15K Oct 31 Gatineau Park Half marathon/Marathon

5 –15K/Trail

$15

Half marathon

$20

Marathon

$25

Register online Register mec.ca/events