10 Races Worth Checking Out in the Greater Ottawa Area

Written by: Graham Acreman
April 25, 2015

Ottawa and the surrounding area offers one of the highest per capita number of races in North America. On almost every weekend in late spring and summer you can choose from a wide range of events. Whether you’re into running, cycling, triathlons or obstacle course races there is truly something for everyone.

Sporting Life 10k – May 10, 2015
The inaugural SL10k takes place along Colonel By Drive and is held in support of CHEO. The course is flat and fast and expected to be one of the most popular new events in Ottawa.

Ottawa Early Bird Triathlon & Duathlon – May 16, 2015
If you’ve ever thought of trying out a triathlon this is the race for you. Brought to you by Somersault, one of Ottawa areas most dynamic race organizers, the Early Bird features many race options including various length triathlons, duathlons and runs (3k & 8k). The swim portion of the triathlon takes place in the pool at Carleton University while the cycle course if along Colonel By Drive which will be traffic free. All types of bikes are permitted at this race.

Rideau Lakes Bike Tour – June 6 & 7, 2015
Though not technically a race, this is a wonderful cycling tour now in it’s 44th year and it sells out every year. Cyclists have two primary choices; ride Ottawa to Kingston return (3 routes – 177km, 188km & 220km each way) or Perth to Kingston return (100km each way). The Classic 177km route and 100km route from Perth are fully supported with rest/aid stations approximately every 40kms.

Perth Kilt Run – June 20, 1015
Held in scenic downtown Perth, the Perth Kilt Run holds the world record for largest kilt run in the world. An 8km run is the primary race and running in a kilt is mandatory – you can’t run without one. The race features 7 aide stations, free post race beer, music and entertainment and a grand prize of a round-trip to Scotland.

MEC Ottawa Race 3 – June 21, 2015
Held in Carp, Ontario, this event features a 5k, 10k and ½ marathon on rolling country roads. MEC races are some of the best deals around; the 5 & 10k entry fee is only $15 and the ½ marathon is $20.

Bring on the Bay 3k Open Water Swim – July 11, 2015
Now in it’s 9th year, Bring on the Bay is a unique point-to-point open water swim across Britannia Bay that starts at the Nepean Sailing Club and finishes at the Britannia Yacht Club.

GranFondo Ottawa – July 25, 2015
Offering cycling routes of 65k, 100k, 170k & 220k, the GranFondo Ottawa continues to grow in popularity since it’s inception several years ago. The GranFondo perfectly combines fun, hard work and a festive atmosphere. It has the look & feel of a tour event with a hyped-up start, feed-zones, pelotons, breakaways and ending with food & drink and spirited conversation

K-Town Triathlon – August 2, 1015
The K-Town Triathlon takes place in downtown Kingston and features short and long course triathlon and duathlon races. The Long Course Triathlon course starts with a swim in the Kingston Harbour, a ride on mainly rolling hills and a run with flat spots and medium hills. This is a very popular and well-organized event. If you are planning to book accommodation you should do so early.

Spartan Beast – August 9, 2015
The Spartan “Beast” held in Mont-Ste-Marie and is one of the most grueling courses in the Spartan family. The 20km hilly course features 26 obstacles that will challenge your inner-Spartan. And yes, there’s lots of mud.

9RunRun – October 17, 2015
The 9RunRun continues to grow in popularity and is billed as Ottawa’s Emergency Services ‘ Run. The event takes place in Stittsville, ON and features a ½ marathon, 10k and 2k family event. There’s lots of fun and entertainment and don’t miss the Chiefs’ Chili Cook Off.

Check out Raceclicks.com where you can find thousands of events all across North America – Running Races, Obstacle Runs, Mud Runs, Triathlons, Duathlons and more.

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