Location: Hamilton, ON Date: Sunday March 29, 2015 Events: 30K & Relays, 5K Fees: $70-90 (30K); $200-375 (Relays); $38-43 (5K) Participants: 12,750 (30K – 9,000; 5K – 2,500; Relays – 1,250) History: Since 1894 Charity: St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton Experience a part of history at this Canadian bucket list event Celebrating its 120th year in 2014 (and being run for the 105th time), Around the Bay, or ATB as it’s commonly known, prides itself on being the oldest road race in North America (“Older than Boston”). The first run took place in 1894 and is now an extremely popular and exceptionally well run event to kick off the Ontario spring racing season. Register early as the event always sells out, and as many runners would attest, this event should be on every Canadian runner’s bucket list. The event features a unique 30K distance with relay options for teams of two or three, as well as a flat and fast 5K. All together, the event attracts some 12,000 runners and walkers and raises money for St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. The event takes place from FirstOntario Centre (formerly Copps Coliseum) in downtown Hamilton, which also hosts the pre-race expo and kit pick-up as well as race day headquarters and the 30K finish. Race time is 9:30 a.m. for 30K runners and relay participants while the 5K goes shortly after at 9:45 a.m. Note that parking is extremely limited in the area around FirstOntario so plan your trip to and from the event accordingly. There is also a shortage of washrooms in the arena and lines can get very long so make sure you have a plan B. The 30K course has changed for 2014 to feature a more scenic and complete tour of the Hamilton Harbour, which starts just outside FirstOntario. The first half of the course is almost entirely flat right until the half-way point. At 15K, runners cross over into neighbouring Burlington and continue along the panoramic rolling hills of North Shore Boulevard. The last and most grueling climb (Hamilton’s version of Heartbreak Hill) comes around 26K which is then followed by an encounter with the infamous Grim Reaper. Luckily the final 3K of the race provides a gentle downhill return into Hamilton for the unique finish inside FirstOntario. Participants can expect a well-marshaled course with plenty of aid-stations and helpful volunteers. There are also loud and supportive crowds and community cheering stations at various points in the race (some who offer orange slices, bananas and one year, even bacon). Following the finish, which is broadcast “live” on the arena’s jumbo-tron for all spectators to see, participants receive a commemorative medal, which may be gold, silver or bronze depending on their finishing time. There are then an assortment of snacks and refreshments available to finishers as well as plenty of space to relax, unwind and to meet up with family and friends after the race. In 2013, current Canadian marathon and half marathon record holder Lanni Marchant won the women’s race and set a new course record with her time of 1:44:39. Terence Attema of Speed River TFC was the men’s winner in a time of 1:35:44, just a few minutes off the 2010 course record of 1:32:22 set by Alene Reta. Reta is on the elite start list for 2014 as is the reining champ Attema. Marchant will not be back to defend her title as she’s preparing for the Boston Marathon, but Brantford native and 2:28:32 marathoner (Canada’s second fastest of all time) Krista DuChene will be there and may challenge for the record. Also on the start list is Lioudmila Kortchaguina who is one of Canada’s top female masters runners. Canadian Race Guide Ratings and Review Unique/Specialty Event: 5/5 One of North America’s oldest road races with a unique distance of 30K. Event experience: 5/5 Supportive crowds, creative aid stations and the fast downhill finish onto the arena floor of FirstOntario. Organization: 4/5 With 120 years experience, organizers do an incredible job of managing 12,000 people. Swag & Medals: 4/5 The race kit includes a New Balance long-sleeved shirt and the finisher’s medal is gold, silver or bronze depending on your time. Parking & Access: 2/5 Parking is limited in downtown Hamilton and getting to and from the event can be challenging due to the road closures. Plan accordingly.
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