With its seawalls, scenic routes, and easy access to more rugged terrain, Vancouver is a haven for runners. Athletes can challenge themselves with hard-core trail running on the North Shore or the urban Vancouver Marathon. But if you're looking for something a bit more all-inclusive--with something for runners of all abilities--consider the Vancouver Sun Run, Canada's largest community 10K run.
Both a "fun run" and a competitive race, this annual event attracted more than 59,000 people in 2008 and organizers expect the 2009 event to be even bigger.
- When: Sunday, April 19 at 9am
- Where: Downtown Vancouver, starting on Georgia Street. Exact starting points depend on your estimated finish time and are available when you register.
- Getting to The Vancouver Sun Run: There is parking near the finishing area at BC Place Stadium, but road closures begin at 5:30am, so don't drive if you can avoid it. Take public transit. Find schedules at Translink.
- How to register: Register online before April 11. Individuals can still register on April 17 and 18, but only by appearing in person at Sun Run Fair, BC Place Stadium, 777 Pacific Boulevard. There is no registration on race day.
The Sun Run is only as serious as you make it. Elite athletes start first and can race for awards in Masters, Overall and Wheelchairs. Other participants are grouped by ability, based on estimated finish times, and there's a slower category for people walking and pushing strollers.
After you've registered, pick up your race package on April 17 and 18 at Sun Run Fair, BC Place Stadium, 777 Pacific Boulevard. Materials for teams will be given to team captains only; see the site for details.
Not sure you can manage a 10K? There's a Shaw Mini Sun Run 2.5K happening the same day.
For all the details about both races, go to the official Vancouver Sun Run site.
