Canada Running Series Announces Leadership Transition with New CEO Appointment
TORONTO, March 25, 2026 — Canada Running Series (CRS), the organization responsible for some of Canada's most celebrated road races, has officially announced a significant leadership change. Charlotte Brookes has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, taking over from her father, Alan Brookes, who founded and led the organization for decades. This transition marks a pivotal moment for CRS as it prepares for the 2026 racing season.
A New Era for Canadian Road Racing
The announcement comes just before the season's opening event, the Beneva Spring Run-Off scheduled for April 4th. This timing symbolizes not just the start of another exciting racing year, but the beginning of a fresh chapter in leadership for one of Canada's most respected road racing organizations. CRS, best known for organizing the internationally acclaimed TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, has grown under the Brookes family stewardship to become a cornerstone of Canadian road racing, attracting tens of thousands of participants annually.
Charlotte Brookes will lead the organization alongside Chris Fagel, who assumes the dual role of Chief Financial Officer and Technical Course Director. This new leadership structure represents a meaningful evolution for CRS, honoring the organization's rich history while charting an ambitious path forward.
Charlotte Brookes Brings Deep Experience and Vision
Charlotte Brookes brings to the position a profound passion for community-driven sport and a proven track record in event leadership. Her appointment reflects both continuity and innovation, building on the foundation established by her father while introducing new perspectives to the organization.
The 2026 season will showcase this renewed vision through several key initiatives. CRS plans to enhance its women's program, strengthen its focus on accessibility and inclusion, and continue investing in athlete experience from start line to finish. Under Charlotte's leadership, the organization will prioritize expanding participation, elevating women in sport, and making race experiences more welcoming and accessible to runners of all abilities.
Leadership Perspectives on the Transition
"Canada Running Series has always been about more than races," said Charlotte Brookes in her statement as Chief Executive Officer. "It's about community, connection, and creating experiences that inspire people to challenge themselves and give back. As we begin a new season and step into this next era of leadership, I am honored to build on the extraordinary legacy my father created while working alongside Chris to bring renewed vision, innovation, and energy to the organization and the sport."
Brookes emphasized their commitment to strengthening the organization's legacy with an even greater focus on excellence, community, accountability, inclusion, and sustainability, while staying true to the founding mission of "Building Community Through Running."
Alan Brookes, now assuming the roles of Race Director Emeritus and Vice President, reflected on the organization's journey. "Founding and growing Canada Running Series has been one of the great privileges of my life," he said. "It's particularly appropriate for us to take this major step forward now, as 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of my organizing running events in Toronto from when I became Race Director of the Spring Run-Off in April 1986."
He noted the dramatic changes in race organization over four decades, from an era before internet registration and chip timing to today's modern events. "From its early days to becoming an internationally-recognized series and home to Canada's premier marathon, we've built something truly special. Charlotte has been a vital part of that journey and growth every step of the way. I am proud and delighted to see her take the running experience in Canada to the next level."
The leadership transition at Canada Running Series represents both a celebration of past achievements and an exciting look toward the future of running events, healthy lifestyles, and vibrant communities across Canada.
