Whistler’s Ultra-Marathon for the People
Whether it’s on the slopes, the links or the trails (or just about anywhere in between), Whistler is all about being active. And, on October 14, that activity level will be demonstrated on the ground, with the Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra-Marathon bringing together more than 2,000 athletes from across North America to compete in an eighty-kilometre relay race or solo ultra-marathon centred around Whistler Village. Equal parts spectator sport and athletic world stage, the annual event is just as much fun for those watching as it is for those taking part. “It’s a team-friendly event, with free outdoor music and entertainment so that everybody can participate in some way,” says Brian McCalder, President and CEO of BC Athletics— the organization behind the event. “We encourage people to come out and support the athletes, volunteer, or cheer along the sidelines, even if you don’t know somebody personally who is running.” A decidedly inclusive attitude surrounds the Whistler 50, with options for relay participants to run distances as short as seven kilometres. That almost anyone can take part in the event and run alongside seasoned ultra-marathoners is a reflection of Whistler’s own community-mindedness and encouragement in the arena of athletics. “It’s a mixed bag of competitors,” continues McCalder. “We see Olympic athletes, world champions, and also a lot of relay teams who typically run for a cause of their choice.” The weekend festivities kick off with an official PreRace Social at The Brewhouse on Friday, October 13, where racers and supporters can gather together and enjoy a celebratory pint before the big event. On Saturday morning, the race will begin from Whistler Olympic Plaza before looping four times around a twenty-kilometre course, largely along Whistler’s picturesque Valley Trail. Spectators can position themselves at select points along the course, or choose to enjoy the exciting atmosphere at Olympic Plaza, which will host both relay exchange points and the course finish line, plus a post-race beer garden. The day will wrap up with an awards ceremony at Olympic Plaza—the same site where medals were awarded during the 2010 Olympic Games. To learn more about the Whistler 50 and find accommodation during the event, visit whistler.com/events.