Must do running events on Vancouver Island

If you are looking for running races on Vancouver Island, I’ve decided to compile a list with website links where you can get more information about the events. Look no further for your next finish line if you find yourself on Vancouver Island. You will also find some discount codes here as well as ways to enter to win a free entry into some of the events. The discounts are valid for new registrations only for those who have not yet registered for these events this year.

1. Times Colonist 10k (also known as TC10k). The Times Colonist 10k usually takes place at the end of April every year. It attracts nearly 10,000 participants of all levels from all over Canada and USA. You can run, jog or walk when you do the TC10k. The race is presented by RunSport, a non-profit society that promotes road and cross-country running, track and field events, as well as recreational activities such as jogging and walking for health and fitness. RunSport also puts on training clinics to get you ready for the TC10k. I’ve done this event almost every year. Use the discount code YANATC10K2023 between now and January 31, 2023 to get $5 OFF your registration. The discount code is valid for the in person and virtual option to complete the event. You can also WIN a FREE ENTRY if you share this post on social media (must be set to “public”).

2.  Island Race Series. The Island Race Series is a series of road races that take place between January and April of every year. It includes: Harriers Pioneer 8k, Cobble Hill 10k, Hatley Castle 8k, Cedar 12k, Comox Valley Half Marathon, McLean Mill 10k, Synergy Health Center Bazan Bay 5k, and Westcoast Sooke 10k. Runners of all levels are welcome. You can WIN a FREE ENTRY into all the remaining races of the season by sharing this article on Facebook (must be set to “public” so that I can see that you’ve shared it).

3. Royal Victoria Marathon. The event features the marathon, half marathon and 8k. It takes place in October during the Thanksgiving weekend. It attracts runners of all levels from all over Canada as well as from other countries. If you register by April 1, 2023, you can GET $5 OFF your registration fee with the discount code RVM5. 

4. Goddess Run. The Goddess Run used to be held in June but as of 2023, it’s taking place in March. It attracts runners and walkers of all levels and features amazing swag and a delightful atmosphere. If you register before January 21, 2023 you can GET $5 OFF your registration fee with the discount code MUSTDO5. 

5. Oak Bay Half Marathon. This event features a half marathon, 10k, relay and a kids’ run and takes place end of May. The half marathon will start at Windsor Park. After winding its way through the charming downtown core and historic residential setting of Oak Bay, the course loops out and back along the scenic seaside route of Beach Dr. and finishes back at Windsor Park. Walkers are more than welcome to join the Oak Bay Half Marathon fun and festivities. Walkers and runners who plan to take over 2hrs 30min now have an option to start earlier. You can WIN a FREE ENTRY into this event by sharing this article on Facebook (must be set to “public” so that I can see that you’ve shared it).

6. Navy Run. This event takes place in June and features a 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run. It is a family-oriented, inclusive community event which welcomes runners and walkers of all levels.

7. Edge To Edge Marathon. Taking place in October, the Half Marathon starts in Ucluelet, runs past the Harbour and Boat Basin and then out of town beside the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway. Just past Millstream, the race turns around and heads back towards Ucluelet on the scenic Wild Pacific Trail. This part of the course takes in amazing views of the open ocean, rocky bluffs and the rainforest. After the trail section, the race returns to the Village Green for the finish. The 10km race is a fun, scenic taste of the west coast.  The course takes you through Ucluelet, past the small craft harbour and out onto the Wild Pacific Trail.

8. Cowichan Autumn Classic. The Cowichan Autumn Classic takes place in October and registration will go live in March. Enjoy the tranquility of the Trans Canada Trail, the Vineyard in the fall & the fantastic views at the Holt Creek Trestle which first opened in 1922. I recommend bookmarking this article to see if there is a discount code for this event. Get $5 off your registration using the code Yanasclassic20 and join team Dream Striders (the code will expire on June 30th, 2023)

Please share this article with other runners 🙂

Are you a race director on Vancouver Island who would like your event included here? If so, please contact me and I will provide you with information on how to get your event featured here.