Maritime Race Weekend Half

WHEN: Sept. 15 WHY YOU SHOULD GO: The most true-to-its-theme running experience Maritime Race Weekend has rapidly grown into one of the most popular races in Canada (it regularly sells out well ahead of the fall). The reason? Race director Michelle Kempton is an organizational wizard, and understands how to put together a magical experience.

The scenic Saturday morning half-marathon takes runners along the country and seaside roads of Cow Bay, the tiny community that hosts the event. The race starts and finishes at Fisherman’s Cove, which is basically what you picture when you think “Maritimes.” Bring the kids along with you for an East Coast weekend, as the entire race is pirate themed – and it takes that very seriously. You will receive a finisher’s medal from a Jack Sparrow look-alike, and the extensive race booty is skull-and-crossbones emblazoned. Don’t forget to grab a glass of Keith’s in the finishing chute. It doesn’t get more Nova Scotian than that.