Frequently Asked Questions

Still have a question or need to contact us? Click here.

Tip: try the site map if you are having trouble finding something.

What's the weather like? Click here.

"What I liked: Darn near everything!" - R.P.

"A race I will run again next year." - K.D., Barrie, ON

adidas

Top

General / Miscellaneous

Are live results / live text messaging available for friends/family to track my race?

Yes to both!

Sportstats is offering Live Results on Race Day: CLICK HERE.

Also: Live SMS text messaging for Marathon and Half-Marathon participants. Cost is $2.99. Checkpoints are as follows:
Marathon: 10km, 21.1km, 30km, Finish.
Half-Marathon: 10km, Finish.
Click here to register for the text messaging service.

I'm registered. How do I access the Marathoning for Mortals training programs?

The username and password for 2008 is emailed to all registered participants in early May, and is later provided in the confirmation email for new registrants. Please wait until that time to access this information. After that, if you lose your confirmation email or don't receive it, email (include your name and event you're registered for) and we will respond during business hours Mon–Fri.

How far is a marathon?

42.195 kilometres or 26.2 miles.

How far is a half-marathon?

21.0975 kilometres or 13.1 miles.

Why is the event on this date?

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon typically takes place the last Sunday in September. The organizers are given the date by the City of Toronto. They must balance a number of run / walk events in the city in the fall season, and even more events in the city that close a number of streets.

When is next year's run? Do you organize other running events?

The 2009 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon will take place on Sunday September 27, 2009. Information on other running events that we organize can be found at www.canadarunningseries.com.

What kind of weather is typical for the end of September?

The average temperature for the month of September in Toronto is a pleasant 16°C / 61°F. The average high in September is 20.7°C / 69°F, and the average low in September is 11.2°C / 52°F. Average rainfall for the month is 73mm / 2.9". Moderately high humidity is a possibility at this time of year. Be prepared for a variety of conditions. For more details see our Travel section: Weather - what to expect.

Is this event a Boston qualifier?

Yes. The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a registered AIMS Marathon, certified by Athletics Canada - which makes a great flat, fast, traffic-free Boston Qualifier. For more details on qualifying click here or visit www.bostonmarathon.com.

How do I get my finisher's certificate?

Finisher's certificates are available online (FREE) from Action Sports International — see Results page for a direct link.

Who receives medals?

All marathon and half-marathon finishers will receive a medal.

Do you have a walking section for the marathon?

Yes. All marathoners will start together at 7:30am. No 'early bird' start time. The course will remain open until 2:00pm, allowing for a 6hr 30min marathon.

Is there a walking section for the half marathon?

Yes, walkers start with the runners at 7:30am. No 'early bird start'. The course will remain open until 11:10am, allowing for a 3hr 40min half marathon. After this time course support will be limited, and participants assume the role of pedestrians.

Can I wear my headphones / iPod during the run?

Yes, you are allowed to wear MP3 players at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Please stay to the right hand side of the road and be aware of the runners around you and course marshals. Remember, there are 11 Neighbourhood Cheering and Entertainment Centres on the marathon route, so you may wish to leave the headphones at home and enjoy the on-course entertainment!

How do I train?

Please see our Training & Clinics page for links to training programs and race-specific training clinics.

Where can I view past results?

Please see our Results & Photos page.

Top

Spectators

Where are the best places to watch the races?

See the Neighbourhood Challenge section for all the best spots plus complete Spectator Viewing Guide and "Alan's Top 10 Tips for being a Super Spectator".

When and what streets are closed?

For details please see the following links:

Top

Volunteers

Do you need volunteers, and how do I sign up to volunteer?

Yes, we do need approx. 1,500–2,000 volunteers to ensure the event runs smoothly. To sign up, you can fill out our online volunteer application or print and mail a PDF version. See Volunteers page for forms, job descriptions, and further details.

Top