The 2023 Canada Day Race at Spencer Smith Park is positioned to be one the biggest and best events in the area. Race Director Kelly Arnott is excited about the interest and expected turnout. She says, “We have always felt that celebrating our great country is such an important thing to do. It’s the one day that is a true holiday and we’re going to have a celebration.”
A big party is planned at the park, promising fun for the entire family. So far, more than 950 runners are registered, including 150 children for the 1k Kids Run/Walk. That will be followed by the 5k and 10k races. There are age category prizes, and everyone gets a finishing medal and a t-shirt emblazoned with the maple leaf. Arnott says, “The enthusiasm is greater this year because we are finally out of the pandemic. This is going to be the largest race yet.” This is the 15th year for the Canada Day Race in Burlington.
Celebrating Canada’s Birthday
Dressed in red and white and donning funny hats, people embrace the celebration. Racers cross a finish line decorated in Canada Day colours. The park will have the feel of a huge birthday party with entertainment, birthday cake, fruit, and strawberry-rhubarb pie with maple leaf designs. But Kelly Arnott says, “To make it all happen, we need volunteers to be race marshals, man the water stations, and hand out medals at the finish line.” This year the silver medal will have a locket inside that the winner can remove and give to somebody special.
The race route which starts and ends at Spencer Smith Park, runs along the gorgeous waterfront walking trail. The route is flat and fast. The 5k and 10k races are chip timed. Results will be available at www.speedrivertiming.com within seconds of the racer crossing the finish line where those with the best times will receive a trophy.
You can still register for the race at www.vrpro.ca or go to the Burlington Running Room Store at 3300 Fairview Street to register and pickup your race kit. You can also register on Canada Day at Spencer Smith Park before the races begin. The Opening Ceremony begins at 8:30am, the 1k Kids Run begins at 8:50am and the 5k and 10k races start at 9:10am.
St. John Ambulance volunteers will be on site collecting donations. There is plenty of parking available in lots along Lakeshore Road.
Come on down to Spencer Smith Park on Canada Day to cheer the runners on and enjoy the fun. For more information, visit www.vrpro.ca