Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the race located?
Our race is located in Assiniboine Park in St. James located off Portage Avenue and Overdale. We are located SOUTH of the footbridge towards the East Gate Wellington entrance. Just look for the big white tents that are erected the night before the race - we are hard to miss!
What times does the race start?
Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. in Assiniboine Park.
Is there race day kit pick-up?
No, we do not have race day pick up. If you haven’t picked up your race kit on the dates provided, sorry, we cannot help you race morning. If you are unable to attend Race Kit Pick-Up, you can have someone else pick up your kit for you.
Can I sell or transfer a bib?
Yes, participants are allowed to sell/transfer their race bibs. Please check the Bib Transfers link on the Registration Page for instructions..
Where can we park?
We suggest you part in the Zoo Parking lot located inside Assiniboine Park for easy access in and out of the park. Another option is to park on the side streets north of Portage Avenue across the street from the park. Please keep an eye out for no parking and road closure signs.
What is typical race day weather?
We have learned over the years that there is nothing typical about running in the spring in Winnipeg. Our first year, we woke up to snow and ice on the ground. Our 2nd and 3rd year we enjoyed mild, sunny spring conditions. In 2011, we had moments when we feared the race would be cancelled because of blizzard conditions two days prior. Our Race Director even rented a Bob Cat to clear snow off the course 36 hours before the race started and some runners were unable to travel due to severe road conditions. Anything can happen. We ask that runners plan accordingly and take advantage of our ‘dry clothing tent’. Be prepared for anything but hope Mother Nature smiles on us on race day.
Where do I store my dry clothing?
A space will be available for you. Details will be available at kit pick up.
Do you allow participants to run with headphones (ie. IPods, MP3 players)?
Yes, at this time we do allow electronic devices on the course. If you want to run with music you are more than welcome to. However, we do ask that you take extra care and be aware of your surroundings and volunteers on the course giving instructions. With your co-operation, we can continue to allow electronic devices. We do take great pride in making our course enjoyable for all runners. We provide entertainment on the course such as Japanese drummers and the WPS Pipe Band, not to mention cheering spectators, volunteers and your fellow runners – you may miss out with headphones on your ears.
What is the course elevation?
We live in the prairies so our course is relatively flat. You can expect slight elevations throughout the course on road overpasses.
What type of running surfaces can I expect?
We try to ensure that you are running on smooth surfaces throughout our events. You can expect a combination of roadways and bike paths through the park. In some sections of bike paths there is wear and tear so please take extra care. Also, should the weather become a factor, be prepared for snow and ice.
Is the course certified?
Yes, we are happy to announce that our course is now certified!
Will there be finish line photos?
Yes, our official race photographer's site is found at here.
Can I run/walk with my child in a stroller or chariot?
We welcome everyone. If you normally run with your child in a stroller or chariot we would love to have them involved as well. After all, they will likely be future runners in our event. Out of courtesy for other participants we ask that you line up at the back at the start line so runners are not forced to try to pass.
Can I run with my dog?
We all love pets, but sorry, we cannot allow animals on the course due to the dangers it may cause other runners.
How long is the course open?
The race course is officially open for 4 hours. Participants have 4 hours to complete their event.
Can I walk the course?
Of course! We encourage walkers to take part in our event! Completing a Half Marathon or Relay is an accomplishment regardless if you walk or run it! We keep our course open long enough to accommodate walkers.
How is the course marked?
The course is marked in miles.
What type of timing is used?
Champion Chip timing by Results Canada is used for our race. Results will be posted on this Web site as well as the Results Canada Web site. Results will be posted on race day in a designated area as they are produced.
What is served at aid stations?
Each aid station will serve water and Gatorade.
Where can my family watch?
We work very hard to make our event as spectator friendly as possible. The best place to watch the race is from our Start/Finish area. You can cheer your runner on as they start off. This is also the ½ way point of our event so it is an easy walk over the foot bridge to Portage Avenue to cheer.
Do I get a medal?
Everyone who crosses our finish line receives a finisher’s medal. You have earned it! This includes relay runners as well who receive a specially designed medal that breaks-away so you each have a piece to share.
Where does the money go?
All funds generated through donations and pledges go directly to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Our Race Committee and the Canadian Cancer Society have teamed together to find research projects and clinical trials where we can direct funds generated from this event and see results firsthand. We have also been working hard to find ways to make each donation dollar go further through dollar match programs. We believe in accountability and want to be able to provide information as we go where your donation dollars are going and the difference each dollar makes in the lives of people who have or are recovering from cancer.