December races happening in the Hamilton area
- Shawn Smith
- 05 Dec 2019
With the cold weather coming early, it can be a difficult time of year for runners and outdoor enthusiasts alike to stay in shape and keep up the training regimen that has been built up throughout the warm summer and fall months.
If you’re like me, you need a race coming up to stay motivated; it gives us a reason to keep moving even when the thermometer dips into the negatives.
Hamilton has long been one of Canada’s finest running cities. With incredible trails that take runners past scenic waterfalls and, of course, the famous Around the Bay race, Hamilton is a worthy destination for runners to test their merit.
With that in mind, here’s a list of the most prominent races taking place in Hamilton and the surrounding area over the winter months.
Santa Burlington 5k – December 7th
If you’re looking to mix a little holiday spirit into your running, there’s no better way to do so than to try out a Santa run. While Hamilton holds its Santa run in November, Burlington’s version of the Santa 5k is just two weeks before Christmas and provides a perfect opportunity to have a little fun with friends.
The route takes runners along Brant Street and Lakeshore Road in Burlington before making their way up Maple Avenue and Hammond Street. Runners will finish on Brant Street.
If you’re looking for something to do with your children, lining up along the route to cheer on the hard-working runners is always appreciated. Seeing thousands of people in Santa suits is a spectacle that must be seen to be believed.
99th annual YMCA Boxing Day 10-mile and 4-mile race – December 26th
If you’re looking to shake off that big holiday dinner, there’s no better way to do so than to sign up for the 99th annual YMCA Boxing Day 10-mile and 4-mile run.
It has long been part of Hamilton’s running history and this year will be no different as the legendary race continues its trek towards the century mark.
The four-mile course sees runners leave from the Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA, make their way up Bay Street and through Bayfront Part before working their way back up Hughson Street towards the finish.
The 10-mile course also takes runners through Bayfront Park but extends the run towards the west end of the city before finishing at the same point as the four-mile runners and walkers.
The reasonable sign-up fee is perfect for the frugal runner and the medal, which resembles a snowman, is perfect for any runner’s collection.
The 10-mile run is also a perfect precursor for those looking to test their running abilities at the Around the Bay Road Race, which takes place on March 29th, 2020. Around the Bay is famous for being the oldest road race in North America, with a history that goes back to 1894. The race established Hamilton as a home for long-distance runners, which it continues to be.
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