Vancouver’s 2012 Featured Runs 

Whether you run to race or simply run to work off last night’s slice of raw chocolate cheesecake, Vancouver offers plenty for those who want to lace up their trainers and feel the wind in their hair. Oh yes, and strengthen the ol’ cardiovascular system while doing so.

We’re talking, marathons folks, and there are plenty of options for both the fit and faint of heart.

Daddy Longlegs

You don’t have to be a dad or have longlegs to run this one. The Father’s Day Walk/Run for Prostrate Cancer is held throughout Canada and comes to the Mainland in June. Select from a 10K, 5K, and 2K options and if you’re a dad, bring your kids along for the Toddler’s Race. It’s all for a great cause!

Where to register? http://www.walktolive.ca/

When to run? Burnaby Lake, Sunday, June 17^th 2012

What to sport? Great pair of runners and a big smile. Get ‘em both at MEC.

Tough Nuts

Want to join in the toughest event on the planet? Tough Mudder events are obstacle courses that involve hours of running, slipping, and sliding. Designed by the British Special Forces, their grueling circuits put your physical and mental stamina to the test. While tough mudders poke fun at marathon runners, you’ll find most of them have secretly completed a marathon or two.

Where to register? http://toughmudder.com/events/

When to run? Whistler Olympic Park, Saturday, June 23^rd 2012 & Sunday, June 24^th 2012

What to sport? Team spirit (no tough mudder is expected to get through the course alone).

Show Your Pride

Help kick-start Vancouver’s Pride Week with a race that let’s you be you. Sponsored by the Running Room, 2012’s Pride Run & Walk kicks off at Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley Park and includes a 10K run and 4K social walk. It’ll also do your heart good - proceeds from the 2012 Pride Run & Walk help educate youth via the Out in Schools program.

Where to register? http://www.vancouverfrontrunners.org/index.html 

When to run? Stanley Park, Saturday, July 28^th 2012

What to sport? Some cool shades to protect your peepers. Also available at MEC. 

Fun Lovers 

Love the sea breeze? Then Lululemon’s SeaWheeze run is the one for you. It’s the perfect half-marathon that combines Vancouver’s natural beauty with its man-made allure. The route begins and ends at the stunning Vancouver Convention Center, and meanders through Stanley Park and False Creek. Slip on your running pants, coz this is definitely one run you don’t want to skip.

Where to register? http://www.seawheeze.com/

When to run? Vancouver Convention Center, Saturday, 11^th August 2012

What to sport? Your gorgeous lululemon run gear.