Approximately 20,000 Calgarians will take to the city's streets this weekend for the annual Calgary Marathon, participating in running, jogging, and wheelchair events. The Servus-sponsored race features distances from a 42.2-foot diaper dash to a full 42-kilometer marathon, with registrations up 15 percent compared to last year, setting a new participation record.
Surge in Young Adult Participation
Kirsten Fleming, Chief Executive Officer of Run Calgary, the marathon organizer, noted that while people of all ages are discovering the benefits of running, young adults are driving the boom in unprecedented numbers. The event spans two days, with races scheduled on both Saturday and Sunday.
Race Schedule and Route
The 10 km and 5 km races are set for Saturday morning at 6:45 a.m. and 9:15 a.m., respectively. The full 42.2 km marathon and half 21.1 km marathon begin on Sunday morning at 6:45 a.m. All races start at 11th Avenue, east of Olympic Way, and finish at Enmax Park in Stampede Park.
Road Closures and Parking Restrictions
Road closures will commence at 4:45 a.m. each day and will vary depending on the time. Drivers are advised to check the specific closure times along the race route. Vehicles parked in designated no-parking zones must be moved before 3 a.m. on May 23 and 24, even if normally stationed there. Affected areas include Ramsay, Macdonald Avenue S.E. (entire street), Downtown East/Inglewood, 11 Avenue from 4 Street S.E. to 14 Street S.W. (north and south curb lanes), and 9 Avenue S.E. from 6 Street to 12 Street S.E., extending to Inglewood Bridge.
Temporary Parking Signs and Enforcement
Temporary parking signs will be posted up to 12 hours in advance. Vehicles left in no-parking zones during an active ban may receive a ticket and could be moved to ensure race safety. Organizers urge participants and spectators to plan ahead.
Volunteer and Police Support
Nearly 1,800 volunteers and 125 police officers will support the marathon over both days. Run Calgary has also collaborated with a crowd behavior scientist from Manchester University to manage the influx of participants effectively.
New Race Management Systems
Fleming highlighted new measures, including corral systems, a start line squeeze to limit flow onto the course, and a reversal of the first 8 km of the half marathon and marathon courses. These changes build on last year's transition to a two-day event.
For detailed road closure information, participants and residents can visit the official marathon website.
