The Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K and the Kids Run will take place on Thanksgiving Sunday, October 9, the first time that all four distances will be run since the 40th Annual event in 2019.
With the event in 2020 being virtual because of COVID and in 2021 being a modified event with just an in-person Half Marathon and 8K, this year will be very special. “We look forward to hosting the full Royal Victoria Marathon this year,” says Cathy Noel, RVM Race Director & GM.
The 40+ strong race committee is busy gearing up for the event and registrations are going well. If race trends are anything to go by It is anticipated the event will sell out. “The enthusiasm to get out and race again and to be a part of an event is growing stronger and stronger,” says Noel. The official RVM run clinics, operated by Frontrunners Footwear, have over 200 participants training over the summer, which exceeds pre-COVID numbers.
The event is a popular destination marathon — and a Boston qualifier — known for its scenic course and iconic landmarks. Starting near the BC Legislature in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the route includes a loop through Beacon Hill Park and onto Dallas Road with stunning views of the Olympic mountains. The picturesque Oak Bay Village is on the route as is Canada’s hero Terry Fox, gazing down on runners as they tackle the last few kilometres.
The event attracts some of Canada’s top runners including Natasha Wodak who holds the woman’s Half Marathon record (1:11:45, 2018). The men’s record was set in 2002 by Jon Brown (1:02:32). The Marathon record is 2:13:42 (Lamech Mokono in 2013), and the woman’s dates from 2011 (Lucy Njeri, 2:37:56). Both 8K records were recently set, the woman’s just last year by Sarah Inglis (25:36), and Justin Kent in 2019 (23:14).
Many charities have benefitted from RVM’s Charity Pledge Program — sponsored by CHEK TV — now in its 18th year. Over $2 million has been raised since its inception raising much needed awareness for worthwhile causes. “By partnering with charities each year, we often attract and inspire new participants to be involved which helps to increase the number of participants, and hopefully impacts more and more people to set goals and work towards a healthier lifestyle,” says Noel.
For more information & to register, go to: runvictoriamarathon.com.
Header Photo: Billie Design Co.
