Get Fit for a Great Cause: 9 Local Runs and Races to Do This May

Here's your guide to different runs and races happening across B.C. in May

Ready, set, go!

With the weather getting warmer, Vancouverites are looking to spend more and more time outdoors. And what better reason to get outside than to take part in a local run? Whether it’s to have fun with family and friends, support a great cause or challenge yourself to achieve a certain fitness goal, put your best foot forward and get moving!

Click through for nine runs happening in Vancouver this May…

Color Me Rad – Saturday, May 14

Let loose and take part in the Color Me Rad 5k run in support of feedOne. You won’t go more than half a mile without volunteers covering you in an explosion of colour. Enjoy a rave type of vibe at the finish line with loud music, food and, of course, colour powder everywhere. Sound’s like a great selfie opp, right? Don’t worry, every registration package comes with a Goo Guard phone case. 

Register here.

Shaughnessy 8k Race/5k Poker Walk – Sunday, May 15

Organized by the Lions Gate Road Runners Club, the Shaughnessy 8k Road Race/5k Poker Walk passes through the scenic residential streets of Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale. Grand prizes include a two-night stay at Rowena’s on the River in Harrison Mills and the weekend use of a MINI, courtesy of MINI Yaletown

8:30 a.m. start, Kerrisdale Arena, registration details

MEC Langley Race 2 – Sunday, May 15

This race, organized by Mountain Equipment Co-op follows the beautiful Trans Canada Trail and ends in Fort Langley. There are different distance options to choose from: a half marathon starting in Pitt Meadows, a full marathon from Fort Langley to Pitt Meadows and back around, and a 5k/10k race along the Fort to Fort portion of the Trans Canada Trail. Refreshments will be available afterwards, and medals will be given to the top three men and women in each category. (Who knows? It could just be you!)

Register here.

Woman2Warrior – Sunday, May 15

For all the ladies: challenge yourself and others at the Woman2Warrior adventure race in support of Easter Seals Camps in BC. This is a non-timed 5k run over trails, grass and obstacles that will have you climbing, lifting, jumping, testing your strength, but most importantly, having fun. And of course, what’s an all-girls event without some style? The team with the best costume goes home with a prize.

Register here.

Iron Knee Tender Knee – Saturday, May 21

The Iron Knee Tender Knee race travels through the beautiful trails of North Vancouver, ending at the shores of Deep Cove. There are two distance options: 25k and 13k. The top three men and women both categories will receive a prize, and the event is in support of North Shore Rescue. For all you chocoholics, delicious treats will also be offered after (we repeat, after) you cross the finish line. 

Register here.

Survival of the Fittest – Saturday, May 28

Over the scenic lands of Quest University in Squamish, this race truly lives up to its name. Climb near a waterfall, gaze across the valley at the Tantalus Mountain Range and cross two bridges near the end of the journey. There are two distance options: 18k or 13k as well as a kids race. 

Register here.

Science Fair Fun Run – Sunday, May 29

Support the young scientists of our generation at the largest timed 5k Fun Run in the province. Spend the rest of the afternoon with the entire family enjoying live entertainment, refreshments and free entry into TELUS World of Science until 6 p.m. Strollers are welcome and there is a Mini 1k Fun Run for the kiddies as well. Proceeds go towards the Science Fair Foundation.

Register here.

Run for Water – Sunday, May 29

Raise funds for clean water projects in Sasiga, Ethiopia at the Run for Water race, an internationally recognized event that attracts atheletes and participants from around the world. The race takes place at Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford and there are three distance options to choose from: 10k, 5k, and a half marathon. Enjoy the awards ceremony afterwards and keep the kids busy with face painting, a bouncy castle, wall climbing and more.

Register here.

SOS Children’s Village BC Run and Walk – Sunday, May 29

Help make a difference for over 9,000 B.C. children and youth in foster care at the 8th annual SOS Children’s Village BC Run and Walk. There are three distance options to choose from: 2k, 5k and 10k, and the course will take you around the Richmond Olympic Oval Plaza. Stick around for the rest of the day to enjoy entertainment, food, prizes, a silent auction and much more. 

Register here.