Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half-Marathon & 5k September 30, 2007

The flat and fast features of this event (includes the marathon, half and 5k) have consistently been the reason for so many people reaching a personal best, qualifying for Boston, having a memorable but good first marathon or an outstanding one. Even power walkers or slower runners love this course because of its 7-hour finish.

The events start and finish in the same spot in the heart of downtown, heading out and back along the lakeshore on a flat course that Boston hopefuls and first-timers love. Toronto Waterfront was one of North America's fastest marathons in 2006 [2:10:15]!

There are bands and Neighbourhood Entertainment Centres every 2 kilometres, cheerleaders, numerous aid stations and "The Penguin", John Bingham, hamming it up on the mike after his finish in the half. Overall, there's a great, festive atmosphere. All marathoners and half marathoners get adidas Climalite technical t-shirts and a distinctive finishers' medal (new designs for 2007).

Toronto Waterfront, however, is much more than just the run... it's a festive, full weekend that starts with John Bingham and great speakers at the free 2-day Expo, Friday and Saturday. There's a Saturday morning (free) short International Friendship Run, hosted by the Running Room, a fun carbo load pasta dinner on Saturday night and a post-race Victory party on Sunday at Milestones Restaurant (John St. location). All in all, an amazing event in a fantastic city.

Official Website: http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com