When we think about destination marathons, we often think of our bucket list – Big Sur, New York City, the Great Wall of China. In 2023, there is another entry for your list: Montreal. And Montreal isn’t only a race for distance runners – Montréal Beneva Marathon 2023 is aptly dubbed “the race for everyone”, with distances ranging from the full marathon, half-marathon, 10 km, 5 km and even a special-family oriented 1 km event.
From September 22 to 24, the Montréal Beneva Marathon will transform Montreal into a runner’s paradise, inviting participants to celebrate the 31st edition of the largest running event in Quebec! Once again, runners of all levels can discover Montreal’s iconic history, its parks and shores, and enjoy different courses ranging from 1 to 42.2 kilometres.
“Montreal will move to the marathon beat, celebrating the city’s end-of-summer celebrations,” says Sebastien Arsenault, president and CEO of the Montréal Beneva Marathon. “This year marks the return of our organization to the helm of this signature event, and we hope to bring participants from around the world together to run at their own pace, in a setting that’s more festive than ever before.”
The event kicks off on Friday, Sept. 22 with a runner’s expo that will be as much about picking up your bib as a party and a kick-start to an incredible weekend of Montreal vibes. On Saturday, Sept. 23, runners can continue visiting the expo, or take part in several events – from the I Love Fruits and Veggies Little Steps 1K race, the Sports Expert 5K race, or the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation 10K race.
The half- and full-marathon takes place Sunday, Sept. 24 with an incredible route that starts at Espace 67 in Parc Jean-Drapeau, travelling from one side of Montreal to the other, finishing at the iconic Olympic Park Esplanade. For those who have never been to the city, the route will not only be visually stunning and challenging – but will be deeply rooted in Montreal’s rich history. This is a chance to see Montreal in a unique way, through fresh eyes, and tick off a marathon goal!
“If it hadn’t been for my good friend Jessica Barker challenging me to do it, I don’t think I would have run the Montréal Beneva Mararthon, and certainly not a half-marathon,” says celebrated Quebec TV host Patricia Paquin. “Time, competition and distance were never part of our conversation – we were just so proud of ourselves for reaching the finish line – it was one of the best experiences of my life.”
Race organizers are encouraging participants of all levels to come and experience the Montréal Beneva Marathon, either as individual competitors or as part of a team. With more than 50 charities registered for the Run With Heart charity program, the organizers are hoping to set new records for fundraiser efforts. As the title sponsor, Beneva is deepening its commitment to the Montréal Beneva Marathon’s fundraising events by awarding grants to nine separate organizations. The Montréal Beneva Marathon Organization will also donate $1 from every registration fee to the Quebec Athletics Federation.
Not only that but the event is certified carbon-neutral by the Planetair organization: the Montréal Beneva Marathon and all its partners will offset its GHG emission and are inviting all participants to do the same when they register. There will be eco-friendly events throughout the weekend.
Martin Robert, executive vice president and leader of talent, culture and communication, says the company is proud to be the title sponsor. “We are committed to supporting this friendly event that will promote healthy lifestyles and are excited to invite runners, family and fans to the Beneva Chill Zone before and after the race.”
Run with Heart ambassador, Alexandra Diaz has one goal: to run a consistent race. “I’m the person everyone passes at the race. I couldn’t care less about the clock. My time is slow because between running, Pilates, training, my company and my kids, I had to sacrifice something,” says Diaz. “My goal is to set my own pace for 5K and then the next day’s half-marathon. I hope to still be an ambassador at 80, looking mighty fine…even if I finish last place.”
But make no mistake: if you want to set a PB, there will be plenty of opportunity to do that, with seasoned runners like Charles-Philibert-Thiboutot acting as a pace bunny. “Pushing yourself farther is the one thing that unites us all in racing,” he says. “It is so inspiring to see thousands of people cross the finish line, often in a mixture of euphoria and pain as the seemingly insurmountable has been conquered. Let’s celebrate our sport and new personal goals at the Montréal Beneva Marathon.”
Registration is open for all events. Visit mtlmarathon.com/en/ to register today.
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Total value more than $2500
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