Historic Vancouver Marathon Will Celebrate its 45th Anniversary on May 1st 2016, Registration Now Open
May 1st 2016 will mark the 45th Anniversary of Canada’s most scenic running event and Vancouver’s only marathon, Registration now open at http://bmovanmarathon.ca/register-now/
Vancouver, BC – September 28th , 2015 – Vancouver’s only marathon started in 1972 when Tom Howard of Surrey, BC, led a handful of marathon runners around five loops of Stanley Park to complete the first “British Columbia Marathon.” Now set to celebrate its 45th anniversary on May 1st 2016, the BMO Vancouver Marathon has grown into one of Canada’s greatest running events with races for everyone including a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, 8KM, Kids Run and new 2.5KM Walk.
“For the first marathon, we had just a few organizers but only dealing with 32 runners. All had to see the start physician and have a brief physical exam to make sure we could make the distance,” says Jack Taunton, co founder of the event back in 1972. “Today’s marathon is a well oiled machine from marketing, which we never had, the excellent marathon clinics, chip timing, a first-class Expo to get your number and shirt, all the latest in training aids, transit to the start, and first class Start and Finish Lines – nothing but the best.”
“The Vancouver International Marathon Society is dedicated to continue growing the amazing tradition of the Vancouver Marathon. We are truly committed to presenting a world-class marathon event that is celebrated and cherished in our community,” says Charlene Krepiakevich, Executive Director of the Vancouver International Marathon Society, the non-profit organization responsible for the BMO Vancouver Marathon. “The BMO Vancouver Marathon includes breathtaking courses and is a must-do race for not only locals but for runners from around the world.”
Ranked by Forbes, CNN, and USA Today as one of the top Destination Marathons in the world, the BMO Vancouver Marathon brings out thousands of participants, volunteers, and spectators every year, welcoming runners from over 50 countries in 2015.
The not-for-profit Vancouver International Marathon Society will assemble nearly 4,000 volunteers to help stage the event next May. With 40 charity organizations participating in the 2016 race weekend, the BMO Vancouver Marathon will also continue its great tradition of community involvement allowing runners to fundraise for greater good. In addition, Neighbourhood Challenges will give the opportunity for community groups to win prizes by demonstrating their spirit, support and enthusiasm on race day.
“Very proud to see that the torch has been carried with great involvement of the community and great spectators and wonderful entertainment along the course and Finish Line,” says Taunton. “We always wanted to promote health and wellness and now can do it in a very affective fashion.”
“It is a destination weekend and shows off the city so well,” adds Taunton.
The 2016 event will look to build on the successes of the great new initiatives and enhancements introduced over the years including:
– Finisher’s medal, Saucony technical t-shirt, race bib and timing chip
– Live entertainment throughout at more than 30 points on-course
– Complimentary beer, wine or non-alcoholic drink at Mahony & Sons
– Complimentary Canada Line ticket and free bus shuttle for select locations
– Discounted Running Room training clinics, $20 savings
– Free Speaker Series led by SportMedBC professionals
– $200 voucher for a BikeHike adventure
– Group registration opportunities for friends, family, clubs
– Increased fundraising options with 40+ charities to support in the Run4Hope program
– Free three-day Health, Sports & Lifestyle Expo
– Thrill of participating in Canada’s most scenic running event
Check out the amazing timelapse video of the 2015 BMO Vancouver Marathon. For more information and to register, please click here.
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