If the Sporting Life 10K in May was any indication, we're a city of running fools (or we just like getting a new t-shirt and a medal). A great way to contribute to good cause or come to terms with wearing spandex, running is also fantastic for seeing Toronto from a new perspective. Choose your date, sign up for one of the races below, and start training.
Toronto Freedom to Move for Dystonia 5K
When: Sunday June 3rd, 2012
Why: A picaresque run through our esteemed High Park, marvel at the green spaces as you run or walk. Good for hill training for seasoned runners as this certainly isn’t flat terrain.
How: Register through http://www.dystoniacanada.org/TorontoRunWalk
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Toronto Pearson Runway Walk
When: Saturday June 23rd, 2012
Why: See the airport from a different angle through a 5K run or 2K walk - right on the runway! Proceeds go to Hope Air, which sends Canadians who are in financial need and must travel to get healthcare.
How: Register through http://www.torontopearson.com/runwayrun/##
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The Beaches Tune Up - 20K, 10K and 5K training and walk
When: Friday July 27th, 2012
Why: As the heat escalates and the races tune down, this race appears as official training for the Scotiabank Waterfront marathon. Pacers are from the Running Room and afterwards jazz is all around. What better cool down than sitting and listening to some fine live musicians?
How: Register through http://www.canadarunningseries.com/jazz/jazzDET.htm#ent
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A Midsummer’s Night’s Run - 30, 15, & 5K
When: Saturday August 18th, 2012
Why: This is a beautiful route by Toronto’s eastern beaches and waterfront. In addition, pace fairies wear tutus rather than bunny ears (some male pacers may not enjoy tulle as much as the women). This year is the first year that a 5K is offered. Proceeds go to SickKids and the race starts at 5:30 to beat the heat.
How: Register through http://www.amidsummernightsrun.ca/index.htm
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Terry Fox Run
When: Sunday September 16th, 2012
Why: With various distances and locations, this race is a good way to pay homage to a man that had to stop running while inspiring others to pound the pavement. As honorably Canadian as Tim Horton’s coffee, it’s a hopeful exit from summer.
How: Find your distance, your location, from UCC to the Beaches at http://www.terryfox.org/Run/
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CBCF/CIBC Run for the Cure 1K or 5K
When: Sunday September 30th, 2012
Why: A race that asks the question “Who are you running for?” with regards to breast cancer all around the country, is a powerful race indeed. Build a team, volunteer or run alone for the shorter distances.
How: Register at http://www.runforthecure.com/site/PageServer?pagename=run_homepage_12
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Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon
When: Saturday October 13th, 2012
Why: Flat. Fast. Festive. That is their official “why”. But it’s also a chance to see our elite runners in the cooler fall temperatures. This is one of Canada’s largest marathons, and if the 42K is not your thing, there’s a half marathon and a 5K. Even for non-runners, it’s an amazing zoo to watch as a spectator.