Ottawa is Canada’s capital city. Which means it has Parliament, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and a lot of stunning scenery. And, of course, there is also that famous Canadian carb-loading classic, poutine.
But did you know that Ottawa is also home to Canada’s biggest marathon, which takes place at the most popular running weekend in the country? On 23 and 24 May 2015, Ottawa will become Canada’s marathon capital, as 50,000 runners and 200,000 spectators get together for two days of awesome running.
The weekend includes six distances, including two world-class IAAF Silver Label events: a 10K on Saturday night and the main event, the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon on Sunday morning.
Last year, Boston Marathon record-holder Geoffrey Mutai returned to Ottawa for the third straight year to run the 10K, while the 2012 Boston Marathon champion, Wesley Korir, took on the marathon. Two-time London Marathon champion Mary Keitany also came to Ottawa, breaking the women’s 10K record in the process.
Speaking of records, the eventual winner of last year’s marathon was Ethiopian Yemane Tsegay, who set the record for the fastest marathon ever run in Canada, at 2:06:54. Not only does the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon have amazing atmosphere and beautiful scenery – it’s a fast course!
And with six events, including a Kids Marathon and 2K, there is something for every member of the family to participate.
So, when you’re thinking of where you want to run your spring marathon in 2015, put Ottawa, Canada, on your destination list. This awesome event is one that has runners talking and races selling out faster every year.
For more about the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon, please click here.
For more about visiting Ottawa, please click here.
