Jun 19 2024
0

Get Moving for the Cause that Moves You with the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Charity Challenge

By | Announcement, Charity Challenge | No Comments

2024 TCS Charity Challenge officially kicks off with over 120 Canadian charities and a new green way to give back

TORONTO, ON (June 19, 2024) – The annual TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is returning to the city’s streets this fall for the iconic run’s 35th edition and as of today, registration is officially open for the TCS Charity Challenge, giving participants the opportunity to run, walk or wheel for the cause that moves them. The TCS Charity Challenge has raised over $53 million to date for more than 150 Charity Partners each year making a lasting impact in our communities. 

The TCS Charity Challenge unites the spirit of runners with a unique fundraising program that supports local charities and empowers participants from across Toronto and around the globe to build a community of support around the cause that moves them. This year, race organizers are challenging those partaking in the marathon, half marathon and 5k distances to help reach their fundraising goal of $3 million, to bring the cumulative total over $56 million since the inception of the program.  

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is Canada’s premier running event offering participants a unique race experience along Toronto’s beautiful waterfront, parts of the Trans Canada Trail and through the heart of the city. The race takes place in-person over the weekend of October 19 to 20, 2024, with the marathon and half marathon taking place on Sunday and the 5k on a new course and time the day prior, providing even more opportunities to choose to run and fundraise this year.

“We are so excited to be kicking off the TCS Charity Challenge again this year,” said Charlotte Brookes, National Event Director at Canada Running Series (CRS). “Our Toronto Waterfront Marathon community has raised millions for incredible organizations over the years, leaving a legacy of lasting impacts in our own communities. Race weekend brings an infectious energy to Toronto and the Charity Challenge adds a meaningful boost to the excitement as Torontonians, Ontarians and Canadians everywhere choose to run, and choose to give to support so many important causes each October.”

“This year, we are pleased to introduce the Green Bib Program, which allows participants to choose to wear a green bib on race day and have a donation made to a participating sustainability charity in lieu of receiving a race shirt and medal,” continued Brookes. “The program combines our ongoing efforts to reduce our environmental impact, to join philanthropy with sport, and to provide our participants with more ways to personalize their race experience.”

The marathon has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for sustainability Charity Partners in recent years, including Trans Canada Trail and Trees for Life who are returning once again as the 2024 feature Charity Partners. 

“Each year, we’re reminded how powerful the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon community is and what an incredible impact the TCS Charity Challenge has,” added Soumen Roy, Executive Director and Country Head, Canada, Tata Consultancy Services. “Having raised nearly $3 million last year, we’ve seen what a difference the challenge can make for local organizations and those they support. We’re proud to be part of the TCS Charity Challenge and look forward to another great year of fundraising!”

“For me, fundraising for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation through the TCS Charity Challenge was a cause incredibly close to my heart as a cancer survivor,” says Brandon Throop, the top TCS Charity Challenge fundraiser in 2023, the top 2023 TCS Charity Challenge fundraiser, raising over $100,000. “It was an important opportunity for me to pay it forward, and to be able to do so through running, something else close to my heart for many years, makes it that much more personal. I hope that others will choose to run for the cause that moves them, or support those running, because every little bit really does make a difference.”

Registration and fundraising for the TCS Charity Challenge officially opens today. Here’s how to get involved:

  1. Register online for one of the Marathon, Half Marathon, or 5K events.
  2. Fundraise by signing up for the TCS Charity Challenge and selecting the charity you’d like to raise funds for.
  3. Donate by visiting the TCS Charity Challenge website and selecting the Official Charity you’d like to donate to.
  4. Support the TCS Charity Challenge, our Charity Partners, and participants by following along on social media and using the hashtags #chooseTOrun, #chooseTOgive, and #TCSCharityChallenge, and come out on October 19 and 20 to cheer on your friends and family along the race route and at the finish line!

-30-

 

About the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

2024 marks the 35th edition of the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Canada’s premier running event and the grand finale of the Canada Running Series (CRS). Since 2017, the race has served as the Athletics Canada national marathon championship race and has doubled as the Olympic trials. Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. 

For more information, visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com. 

About Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 65 years. Its consulting-led, cognitive powered, portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions is delivered through its unique Location Independent Agile™ delivery model, recognized as a benchmark of excellence in software development. 

As part of the Tata group, India’s largest multinational business group, TCS has over 601,000 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 55 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $29 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, and is listed on the BSE and NSE in India. TCS’ proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the mSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index. 

For more information, visit www.tcs.com  

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emma Hunt, Sutherland Corp.

emma@sutherlandcorp.ca

Jun 04 2024
0

TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Kicks Off 35th Anniversary by Celebrating One of Toronto’s Oldest Landmarks

By | Announcement, Medal Reveal | No Comments

TORONTO, ON (June 3, 2024) – Canada Running Series unveiled the highly anticipated 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon medal yesterday evening at Union Station, just in time for the iconic marathon’s 35th anniversary. The host location is also featured on the medal’s design as a tribute to Union Station being a hub of Toronto community and activity since it was opened in 1927. This year’s medal also highlights Toronto’s “Monument to Multiculturalism,” symbolizing the diverse and inclusive spirit of the city. The new medals will be awarded to all 25,000 race participants, with variations for distance. Photos of the medal and medal reveal event can be found here. 

“The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is not just a race, it’s a celebration of our city’s spirit and resilience,” said Charlotte Brookes, Race Director. “Union Station is a cornerstone of Toronto’s history and activity, and with the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon being such a standout weekend in the city, we wanted to encapsulate the energy and essence of the city in our 2024 design.” 

This year’s TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is set to take place on October 20, 2024, with both in person and virtual race options available. Registration is open, and can be found on the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon’s website. The world class marathon weekend brings over 25,000 participants from across the globe to Toronto annually for the Olympic qualifying race, and has raised over $52 million for local charities through the marathon’s TCS Charity Challenge since its inception. 

“Canada Running Series is an incredible organization widely recognized for hosting impeccably planned running events, with the pinnacle of Canada’s race season being the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon,” said Soumen Roy, Executive Director and Country Head, Canada,Tata Consultancy Services. “The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a legacy event for the city with 35 years of history, and these medals showcase not just the city that serves as the backdrop for this world-renowned race, but the physical achievement of each and every participant.” 

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is renowned for its scenic route, cheerful atmosphere, and commitment to charitable causes, attracting participants from across the world including elite athletes, amateur runners, and avid enthusiasts. Runners typically pass Union Station during the race, making it a landmark the participants can expect to see on race day and have for years.

Join the tens of thousands who celebrate Toronto every year for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. #ChooseTORun by registering to participate, #ChooseTOGive through the TCS Charity Challenge or #ChooseTOCelebrate by lining the race route to support the participants on October 19-20, 2024. 

-30-

About the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is Canada’s premier running event and the grand finale of the Canada Running Series (CRS). It is celebrating its 35th edition in 2024. Since 2017, the race has served as the Athletics Canada national marathon championship race and has doubled as the Olympic trials. Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. 

To learn more about the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com. 

About Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 65 years. Its consulting-led, cognitive powered, portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions is delivered through its unique Location Independent Agile™ delivery model, recognized as a benchmark of excellence in software development. 

As part of the Tata group, India’s largest multinational business group, TCS has over 601,000 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 55 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $29 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, and is listed on the BSE and NSE in India. TCS’ proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the mSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index. For more information, visit www.tcs.com

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laurel Bury

Sutherland Corporation

laurel@sutherlandcorp.ca

May 08 2024
0

Celebrating the Legacy of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon

By | History, Races | No Comments

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon (TWM) is more than just a race; it’s a storied chapter in Canadian and global long-distance running history. This event weaves through the heart of Toronto annually in October, featuring a full marathon, half marathon, and 5 km race, attracting runners from around the globe. Known for its scenic course along Toronto’s beautiful waterfront, the TWM stands as a testament to human endurance, community spirit, and the transformative power of running.

A Marathon of Records and Firsts

Since its inception, the Toronto Waterfront Marathon has been a battleground for breaking records and setting new standards in marathon running. The 2013 edition saw Deressa Chimsa shattering the men’s course record, clocking the fastest marathon ever on Canadian soil. This clearly indicates the race’s caliber and appeal to elite runners worldwide. Similarly, in 2011, Koren Jelela Yal set the women’s course record, establishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon as a premier running event

Ed Whitlock’s Enduring Legacy

The TWM is also intertwined with the extraordinary feats of Canadian runner Ed Whitlock. Whitlock’s achievements, including becoming the oldest man to run a marathon in under three hours and setting multiple age-group world records at TWM, have cemented his legend and highlighted the marathon as a platform for extraordinary human achievements.

A New Canadian Record

In 2018, Cam Levins made history at the TWM by breaking Jerome Drayton’s 43-year-old Canadian men’s national record for the marathon. This momentous achievement underscored the TWM’s role in the evolution of Canadian long-distance running.

Fastest Marathon on Canadian Soil 

Kenya’s Philemon Rono’s 2:05:00 in 2019 remains the fastest marathon run on Canadian soil (along with the fastest time in North America that year). Plus, Kenya’s Magdalyne Masai-Robertson’s 2:22:16 in 2019 is also the women’s Canadian soil record.

Canadian Women’s Records Broken

In 2013, Lanni Marchant (2:27:58) and Krista DuChene (2:28:29) both broke Silvia Ruegger’s 2:28:36 Canadian record (set in 1985) at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Lanni won the Canadian Women’s race that year, and it would be almost ten years before Malindi Elmore broke the Canadian Women’s marathon record. 

Navigating Challenges

The global COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, leading to the cancellation of the 2020 in-person race. However, the TWM’s spirit remained unbroken, with virtual races allowing participants to maintain their connection to the event and continue supporting charitable causes.

A Force for Good

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon has been a significant force for philanthropy, raising millions of dollars for charity through the Charity Challenge, raising anywhere from 2.5 – 4M per year for various organizations. 

The Marathon’s Cultural Impact

Ed Whitlock: More Than a Marathoner

Ed Whitlock remains one of the most compelling figures in the history of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. His unconventional approach to training, lack of sponsorship, and remarkable performances have made him a global icon, attracting attention from media outlets worldwide. Whitlock’s legacy transcends running, inspiring countless individuals to rethink the boundaries of age and potential.

Fauja Singh: The Centenarian 

Fauja Singh’s participation in the TWM further exemplifies the marathon’s cultural resonance and that running has no age limits. As the oldest man to ever finish a marathon, Singh’s story of resilience and determination has captivated audiences worldwide, from Vice Media to the New York Times, showcasing the marathon’s capacity to inspire and amaze.

Always Improving the Marathon Experience

Evergreen Certification 

In 2023, The Council for Responsible Sport certified the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon with the highest distinction possible: Evergreen Certification. This award recognizes the event’s outstanding social, environmental, economic, and community impact. 

A Bright Future with TCS

In 2024, the TWM, now sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), anticipates one of its biggest turnouts, with 25,000 runners from over 70 countries. This new chapter promises to build on the marathon’s rich competition, community, and innovation legacy. It includes the introduction of a race app featuring a carbon footprint calculator, highlighting TCS’s commitment to sustainability. 

–

From breaking records to breaking barriers, the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon has become a beacon of inspiration, community, and athletic excellence. As it continues to evolve, the TWM remains a pivotal event in the global running calendar, celebrated not just for its scenic course and competitive field but for its profound impact on runners, spectators, and the wider community. Here’s to many more years of memorable races, remarkable achievements, and the unifying power of running.

Apr 15 2024
0

TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Announces Exciting Addition to Event Weekend: 5K Race Now on Saturday 

By | Announcement | No Comments

TORONTO, ON – April 15, 2024 – The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is thrilled to announce that they have been granted a permit to host the 5K race on Saturday, October 19th, in conjunction with the Marathon and Half Marathon taking place on Sunday, October 20th. This news extends the excitement of race day, bringing a true Event Weekend to Toronto this fall as the race celebrates its 35th anniversary! 

Registration for the 5K opens today, April 16th, at 12 noon Eastern Time with a cap of 8,000 participants. Participants now can enter multiple events, combining the Saturday 5K with the Sunday Marathon or Half Marathon. Those already registered for the Marathon or Half Marathon will receive an email with a $10 discount code to register for the 5K. 

Canada Running Series’ National Event Director Charlotte Brookes expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled with this development and believe it will take the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon to the next level. It signals the next era of running in Toronto now with a complete weekend of races as seen at other world marathons in NYC, Boston, London, and Chicago, and here in Canada in Montreal, Ottawa, Halifax, and Regina. It will create a full weekend of energy and excitement; it will bring more people into the city, enhance the economic impact, and will provide an opportunity for anyone supporting a loved one doing the Marathon and Half on Sunday to also participate in the 5K on Saturday. It will also have an enormous positive impact on our TCS Charity Challenge and our Marathon Jr’s Kids programs with it being in a more accessible location and at a more accessible start time of 9 a.m. No longer will the several thousand participants raising funds for one of our 150 charities in the 5K have to get out to the Exhibition grounds at 7 a.m. before the sun is up; now they will start at 9 a.m. at Nathan Phillips Square on Saturday with the TTC opening at 6 am. It will be a complete game-changer!” 

Canada Running Series extends heartfelt gratitude to their partners at the City of Toronto, their staff, and agencies who have made this important milestone possible. We are excited to move forward together. 

The new Saturday 5K will run on a downtown course using the same Start and Finish lines as the Marathon and Half Marathon just beside Nathan Phillips Square. 

For more information and to register, visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com  

 

For press inquiries please contact:  

Laurel Bury 

media@canadarunningseries.com   

 ###

About Canada Running Series 

Canada Running Series is Canada’s premier road race series, offering seven annual events nationwide. Since 2017, CRS’s flagship event, the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, has served as the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championship race and has doubled as the Olympic trials. In 2023, CRS raised over $3.5 million for over 200 local charities through the Charity Challenge. 

Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. 

Nov 22 2023
0

2023 TCS CHARITY CHALLENGE MARKS 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH $53.5 MILLION RAISED FOR CANADIAN CHARITIES

By | Charity Challenge | No Comments

TORONTO, ON (November 22, 2023) – Canada Running Series proudly closes the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon season by announcing that the 20th annual TCS Charity Challenge has raised nearly $2.5 million for 159 Canadian charities. With nearly 21,000 community donations and 2,600 active fundraisers in 2023 alone, the TCS Charity Challenge has now raised over $53.5 million since its inception in 2003.

With over 150 charities to choose from each year, the annual TCS Charity Challenge is a unique opportunity that allows TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon participants to customize their experience by running for a cause that moves them. The impacts of fundraising can be seen in communities across Toronto, with charities supporting a variety of causes from environmental sustainability to Indigenous health, LGBTQ2+ support, cancer research and so much more.

“We are so proud of all those who ran for a cause and donated to support our 20th Charity Challenge,” said Alan Brookes, Race Director at Canada Running Series (CRS). “It’s inspiring to see running bring the community together to make a difference for so many incredible organizations. These are the kinds of impacts that span far beyond race weekend and can really make a positive change in our communities in Toronto and beyond.”

“We are completely in awe of the outstanding fundraising efforts of the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon participants,” said Soumen Roy, Executive Director and Country Head, Canada, TCS. “The tremendous success of the TCS Charity Challenge is a testament to the strength and spirit of Toronto’s running community.”

This year’s race weekend was a smashing success, as Toronto witnessed an impressive gathering of over 25,000 people from 78 countries for the world-class TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. In its 34th edition, the marathon celebrated an incredible year of firsts as four debut marathoners took home champion titles and the event saw record-breaking participation.

This standout finale comes on the heels of the marathon’s recent Evergreen Certification by the Council for Responsible Sport. This award recognizes the Marathon’s commitment to environmental stewardship and showcases the efforts of the Marathon to make the event the most sustainable in Canada. These efforts extend through all facets of the race weekend, including their feature charity partners, Trees for Life and Trans Canada Trail who raised over $18,000 this year for their sustainability projects.

The success of the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and TCS Charity Challenge once again demonstrate that it is not just a race, but a celebration of achievement, unity and the unstoppable spirit of the running community that creates a lasting impact.

 

-30-

 

About the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is Canada’s premier running event and the grand finale of the Canada Running Series (CRS). Since 2017, the race has served as the Athletics Canada national marathon championship race and has doubled as the Olympic trials. Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for participants of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process.

To learn more about the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com.

About Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 50 years. TCS offers a consulting-led, cognitive powered, integrated portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions. This is delivered through its unique Location Independent Agile™ delivery model, recognized as a benchmark of excellence in software development.

A part of the Tata group, India’s largest multinational business group, TCS has over 614,000 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 55 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $27.9 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, and is listed on the BSE (formerly Bombay Stock Exchange) and the NSE (National Stock Exchange) in India. TCS’ proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the MSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index.

For more information, visit www.tcs.com

About Canada Running Series (CRS)

Canada Running Series is the nation’s premier running circuit with 7 events, 4 in Toronto, 2 in Vancouver, and 1 in Montreal. It annually attracts over 50,000 participants and raises more than $6 million for some 320 mostly-local charities. The Series includes the World Athletics Gold Label TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championships. Since 1999, CRS has gained international recognition for innovation and organization. To learn more about CRS, visit https://canadarunningseries.com/.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Canada Running Series:

Damien Hope

damien@canadarunningseries.com

Tata Consultancy Services:

Tiffany Fisher

tiffany.fisher@tcs.com

Oct 16 2023
0

Ethiopian Women Dominate a Windy TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon by Paul Gains

By | Uncategorised | No Comments

As some predicted Ethiopian women swept the first four places at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon today but the seven second gap between the winner Buze Diriba and Fozya Jemal confirmed the women’s race in this World Athletics Elite label race was one for the ages.

Buze crossed the finish line in 2:23:11 on a day where a cold 22km/hour wind wrecked chances of anyone breaking Kenyan Magalyne Masai’s 2019 course record (2:22:16). Joining her on the podium were Waganesh Mekasha (2:23:12) and Afera Godfay (2:23:15).

The four had closely followed the excellent pacemaking of Canada’s Kevin Coffey who pointed to upcoming fueling stations, potholes at the side of the road and encouraged them all the way through the first half in 1:11:01 and onto 30km where he stopped. It was here that Waganesh Mekasha – the 2023 Ottawa Marathon winner – suffered a fuel bottle mishap. But Diriba’s confidence grew the closer to the finish they ran.

“I have been training well and I was expecting to win but after 40km I was confident,” said the winner, who lived for a time in Albuquerque, New Mexico and can understand and speak English well. “I knew I could finish well.  With one kilometer left I felt it was possible and I think I was focused in the last 500 meters, and I kept pushing. I didn’t see my time.”

Asked if she feared one of her rivals might catch her, she laughed and nodded.

“It was windy, but I managed. I was ok,” she offered. Her result was a substantial improvement over her previous marathon personal best – 2:28:06 from the 2019 Houston Marathon. 

The men’s field agreed at Saturday’s technical meeting they wanted to run 2:07 pace taking into consideration the cross wind forecasted. So, when the lead pack passed the halfway point in 62:30 observers worried they had gone too fast.

Once the eager pacemakers had dropped out by 30km the Kenyan duo of Alfred Kipchirchir and Elvis Cheboi set out after the C$20,000 first place prize money. Kipchirchir has three times beaten 60 minutes in the half marathon distance and Toronto Waterfront was his debut at the full distance. The early pace took its toll, and he faded in the final kilometers. 

Cheboi won in 2:09:20, a new personal best. 

“It was a very tough course,” he said. “I managed it. I don’t know, I think it was about 30km or more that I broke away. I made a move but later on it was very tough and windy.

“The first half was very fast but the end one was very tough, so I struggled a little bit.”

Cheboi had only arrived in Toronto on Friday night having missed his flight from Eldoret to Nairobi. Landing in Toronto he was briefly detained by Canadian immigration authorities, so he was all smiles once he settled into the race hotel. 

A jovial character, he gifted his winner’s laurels to the anti-doping control officer who accompanied him to the awards ceremony and post-race press conference.

As Kiprchirchir paid for his overzealous start, Adugna Takele of Ethiopia passed him to claim second place in 2:10:26. 

“Overall, I am happy with second place, but it was really windy,” Adugna admitted. “I couldn’t’push through it. The course is good but the wind?”

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon also served as the 2023 Canadian Marathon Championships. The men’s and women’s winners were both surprises and both marathon debutantes.

Carolyn Pomerleau of Quebec City ran 2:34:44 to capture the $8,000 winner’s purse along with the gold medal, while Vancouver’s Thomas Broatch took the men’s race running solo for most of the second half. He ran 2:16:25 which also earned him sixth place overall.

“It’s an interesting distance. A lot of things people told me about the marathon were true,” Broatch, who was still running 1,500m races four months ago said. “The first half I felt really easy. I thought I was going to be able to pick it up but then in the final 7 or 8km I was surprised how much I slowed down. Thankfully it was really late in the race.”

Meanwhile Pomerleau was delighted and surprised with her performance.

“They didn’t think about me, they were like ‘who is this girl we don’t know her?’” She said with a good nature laugh.

“It’s my first marathon of all time. My half marathon personal best was 1:13:14 and I ran that in Ottawa. I finished third in the Canadian 10km championship with 33:16 so the time in my 10k is more competitive than in the marathon. I only had eight weeks of training for this marathon. I was ok. My goal was to do a sub 2:35 and I did it.”

Among the many Americans who were using Toronto Waterfront to either qualify for the US Olympic Trials or to bolster their confidence going into that race, Emily Durgin, a resident of Flagstaff, Arizona came out on top. She finished fifth overall in personal best 2:26:46.

“I honestly didn’t know my pace; it was all over the place because of the wind,” Durgin revealed. “I ended up not going with the leaders because I thought that effort in the wind might be a little too much.

“I felt good honestly all the way through; this is a stepping stone for our Olympic trials in February. Getting that Olympic standard definitely gives you a little more confidence.  This isn’t a Berlin, this isn’t a Chicago, I kind of had to not compare my time to what women ran the past couple of weeks. At the trials I can take little more risk with the confidence this race has given me.”

This year’s TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon sold out with a record 5,849 entries. Along with the half marathon and the 5km run today, more than 25,000 runners enjoyed the weekend and $3 million was raised for 159 official charities, so many more than just the elite athletes went home happy.

Oct 16 2023
0

How to get Your Best Post Race Recovery!

By | Athletes | No Comments

By Dr. Britt Moran

How to get your best post race recovery !

It’s true that you can only train as hard as you can recover, and post race recovery is KEY. It’s important to understand that race recovery is not only about recovering from the race itself, but from the entire training cycle, whether you hit your race goals or not.

Once you’ve finished your race, the very first thing you do is celebrate. You did it ! While celebrating, remember to refuel & rehydrate in order to jump start your short term recovery.

Immediately after the race your stomach may be struggling with some “gel induced” gut rot, so it’s vital to get some proper fuel in your system as soon as possible. While your stomach might not be quite ready for more than the complimentary banana and granola bar, you can focus on immediate rehydration with Organika Electrolytes Recovery which helps replenish lost minerals. Once your stomach settles, be sure to take in (mostly) good calories at a regular cadence throughout the rest of the day.

Once you’ve started refueling, do some active stretching to flush out your legs and keep them from getting excessively sore later in the coming days. Check out this video and follow along: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn7SCmQAysu/. Finally, don’t be afraid to walk around a bit, even if it’s slow. Try to get the blood flowing through the day, your legs will thank you the next morning.

Now in longer term recovery, meaning the days following the race. Here are some things to focus on:

  1.      Fueling → Just because you’re not training for anything does not mean you should start to cut the calories. Your body is still working hard to recover not only from the race, but all the training leading up to it. Organika electrolytes + enhanced collagen is a great way to stay on top of regular fueling.
  2.      Down time →  Here is the thing, when we train we work towards a nice peak and then taper down to perform.  We cannot expect to always be at that peak fitness.  So it is important to come down from that fitness, now you will still get some benefit and start a little bit further ahead than you were the last season. So do not be afraid to take the time off, it is an important part of training. Aim for 10 to 14 days after a Marathon & 7 to 10 days for a Half.
  3.      Ease back into training → After your downtime, do two weeks (minimum) of easy runs only.  This is important physically but also mentally.  We cannot always be so focused towards a singular goal, so it is good to give yourself a mental break as well.  This is the time to run for fun and just enjoy the freedom of running when you want to, not because you have to.
  4.      Reflect → On the race and also the season as a whole. Be honest about your weaknesses and areas for improvement.  Make a plan to address one (or two) of them in the off season.

I promise that taking the time to recover appropriately will pay off in the long run (literally). Embrace the break and enjoy the recovery!

-30-

About Dr. Brittany Moran

Dr. Brittany Moran is a Toronto based chiropractor, run coach & runner.  She works at The Runner’s Academy as a chiropractor and is the founder and head coach of StrideWise Running. In her spare time, Brittany trains for marathons at a sub elite level with a personal best of 2:33.

Social media:

Instagram: @torunningchiro / @stridewiserunning / @therunnersacademy

About Organika:

For over 33 years, Organika has been dedicated to redefining health supplementation, through a diverse array of collagen powders, supplements, superfoods, and hydration products. Ensuring that each product offering resonates harmoniously with individual needs, culminating in enhanced products that seamlessly integrate into daily wellness regimens. Helping all people love living healthy!

Social media and website:

  • Organika.com
  • @organikahealth
Oct 15 2023
0

2023 TCS TORONTO WATERFRONT MARATHON SEES NEW PODIUM PRESENCE AND RAISES $2.9 MILLION FOR CHARITY

By | Uncategorised | 12 Comments

Elvis Kipchoge Cheboi and Buze Diriba Kejela win 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon; First time marathoners Thomas Broatch and Caroline Pomerleau win 2023 Athletics Canada Marathon Championship

TORONTO, ON (October 15, 2023) – More than 25,000 people from across Canada and around the world laced up and hit the pavement today for the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half marathon and 5K. In its 34th edition, the world-renowned marathon celebrated an incredible year of firsts. Four debut marathoners took home champion titles and the event saw record breaking participation. Registration for the main events sold out more than a month ahead of race day, participants hailed from 78 countries, and spectators supported from more cheer sites across the route than ever before. 

“The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon has been a staple event for the City of Toronto since it began over 30 years ago, attracting over 25,000 participants annually from across the world,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. “Each year, the marathon brings our city to the world stage, encourages active living in our beautiful outdoor spaces and supports over 150 charities making an impact in Toronto’s communities. Congratulations to all those who ran, walked and wheeled in this year’s events, and thank you to all who have come together across the city to celebrate their achievements.” 

While windy conditions limited chances for records to be shattered, the international and Canadian women’s fields stood out with some unexpected and exciting outcomes. Ethiopian women swept the first four places, with Buze Diriba winning the Women’s Open title by just one second. First time marathoner Caroline Pomerleau also took the lead over Anne-Marie Comeau in the final kilometres to claim the Canadian Championship title. Among the several American women looking to qualify for the US Olympic Trials, Emily Durgin of Arizona came out on top finishing fifth overall in 2:26:46 —.a slender four seconds under the qualifying standard for the Paris Games.

The men showcased their resilience after an over-ambitious first half, with Elvis Kipchoge Cheboi of Kenya claiming the overall title and his own personal best at 2:09:20. Thomas Broatch brought a surprising win as the Canadian Champion in his debut marathon, coming in at 2:16:25 and sixth overall. With an array of joyful faces crossing the finish line, today’s event marked an exhilarating finale to the Canada Running Series.

“TCS is incredibly proud to cheer on our running community at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon,” said Soumen Roy, Executive Director and Country Head, Canada, TCS. “TCS is part of a global running community, and we are honoured to be leading the way to bring innovation and sustainability to the forefront of Canada’s premier running event, and continuing to build on belief together.”  

The marathon has been expanding its global presence, with a record of more than 2,000 international runners participating across all events. This year, the 2023 marathon, half marathon and 5K events had representation from all 13 Canadian provinces and territories, as well as 47 American states. 

“The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon has always been about building community and this year was definitely one for the books, arguably the best we’ve ever had” said Alan Brookes, Race Director, TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. “We often hear that Toronto is described as the world within a city, and today we truly had the world in this city. With some of the highest energy we’ve ever seen on the course, we’re thrilled that our community pulled through once again this year to run, walk and wheel a combined 549,450 kms, raise an anticipated nearly $3 million for 159 charities, and once again make Toronto proud on the world stage.”

While the in-person event might be finished for the 2023 season, the virtual race can be completed until the end of October and TCS Charity Challenge donations are accepted until November. 13th. For those looking ahead to next year, registration for the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon will open tomorrow, Monday October 16, 2023.

2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Results

Open Men

  1. Elvis Kipchoge Cheboi (Kenya), 2:09:20
  2. Adugna Takele Bikila (Ethiopia), 2:10:26
  3. Alfred Kipchirchir Mukche (Kenya), 2:10:56

Open Women

  1. Buze Diriba Kejela (Ethiopia), 2:23:11
  2. Waganesh Mekasha (Ethiopia), 2:23:12
  3. Afera Godfey (Ethiopia), 2:23:15

2023 Athletics Canada Marathon Championship Results

Canadian Men

  1. Thomas Broatch, 2:16:25
  2. Benjamin Raymond, 2:20:15
  3. Sergio Raez Villanueva, 2:20:48

Canadian Women

  1. Caroline Pomerleau, 2:34:44
  2. Anne-Marie Comeau, 2:34:51
  3. Dayna Pidhoresky, 2:35:50

For more highlights and complete race results, please visit: www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com 

2023 Guiness World Record *Unofficial Results 

*Results to be confirmed by Guinness World Records

  • Fastest Half Marathon run by a married couple (aggregate time):
    Garret Lee and Amy Duba, 2:32:12
  • Fastest half marathon dressed as an elf:
    Melvin Nyairo, 1:15:48
  • Fastest Half Marathon run by three siblings
    Paulo, Fernando and Jose Carvalho, 3:57:02
  • Fastest half marathon dressed as a train engineer (female)
    Bridget Burns, 2:01:23
  • Fastest half marathon in a five person costume
    Dekel Chui, Tom Brooks, Andrew Bondoc, Derek Beaton, Jared Nylander, 1:48:59
  • Fastest Half Marathon dribbling a basketball (male)
    Chi Kit Cheung, 2:03:00
  • Fastest half marathon dressed as a crustacean (female)
    Frances Ferrabee, 2:15:01
  • Fastest Marathon in highland Dress (male)
    Denis Bilyard, 3:20:12
  • Fastest marathon dressed as a mountain climber (male)
    Clodoaldo Pasquini, 3:11:54
  • Fastest marathon dressed in traditional Chinese dress (male)
    Jun Liu, 3:54:35
  • Fastest marathon dribbling a basketball (female)
    Maria Babineau, 3:57:40

-30-

About the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is Canada’s premier running event and the grand finale of the Canada Running Series (CRS). Since 2017, the race has served as the Athletics Canada national marathon championship race and has doubled as the Olympic trials. Using innovation and organization as guiding principles, Canada Running Series stages great experiences for runners of all levels, from Canadian Olympians to recreational and charity runners. With a mission of “building community through the sport of running,” CRS is committed to making sport part of sustainable communities and the city-building process. 

To learn more about the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com. 

About Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 50 years. TCS offers a consulting-led, cognitive powered, integrated portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions. This is delivered through its unique Location Independent Agile™ delivery model, recognized as a benchmark of excellence in software development.

A part of the Tata group, India’s largest multinational business group, TCS has over 614,000 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 55 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $27.9 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, and is listed on the BSE (formerly Bombay Stock Exchange) and the NSE (National Stock Exchange) in India. TCS’ proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the MSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index. 

For more information, visit www.tcs.com  

About Canada Running Series (CRS)

Canada Running Series is the nation’s premier running circuit with 7 events, 4 in Toronto, 2 in Vancouver, and 1 in Montreal. It annually attracts over 50,000 participants and raises more than $6 million for some 320 mostly-local charities. The Series includes the World Athletics Gold Label TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championships. Since 1999, CRS has gained international recognition for innovation and organization. To learn more about CRS, visit https://canadarunningseries.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Canada Running Series:

Laurel Bury

media@canadarunningseries.com 

Tata Consultancy Services:

Tiffany Fisher

tiffany.fisher@tcs.com 

Oct 13 2023
0

Alfred Kipchirchir To Debut at TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

By | Athletes | No Comments

by Paul Gains

TORONTO, ON (October 3, 2023) – Kenya’s Alfred Kipchirchir makes his marathon debut October 15 at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and he hopes it goes as well as that registered by one of his training partners.

Kipchirchir, 29, trains in a group which includes Vincent Ngetich who chased two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge along the streets of Berlin last weekend, eventually finishing second in the famed Berlin Marathon in 2:03:13. It was a stunning performance and one that has inspired Kipchirchir.

“I am looking forward to running 2:05 or 2:04 in Toronto,” he reveals. “My training is going well. We run between 180 and 210km in a week.”

According to Coach Peter Bii these two star-athletes trained together right up until the last two weeks with Kipchirchir running step for step with Ngetich. Of course, the latter had to back off training to prepare for the Berlin Marathon.

“I want to debut in Toronto because I like what I have heard about the city from Enock Onchari,” says Kipchirchir. A year ago Onchari, another member of the group, finished 4th in Toronto Waterfront.

“We know it’s very cold (in Toronto) from when Onchari was there. I have no information about the course,” he continues.

Kipchirchir has dipped under 60 minutes for the half marathon distance three times in the past three years with his best 59:43 set in the 2021 Madrid Half Marathon. With his current training going well it is not unreasonable for him to have very high expectations.

All of his life the village of Kapkenu has been his home. It’s about 80 Kilometres from the famed ‘runners’ town’ of Iten. As a young boy he admired the achievements of his neighbour Geoffrey Kamworor who won both the world half marathon and world cross country championships three times and was twice winner of the New York City Marathon. But it was a family member who pushed him to become a runner in his youth.

“My brother introduced me to running. He works as the manager of the High Altitude Training Centre run by Lorna Kiplagat in Iten,” he reveals.

Like many Kenyan athletes he leaves home every Monday morning and travels to the group’s training camp where he will remain until the following Saturday. He doesn’t own a car and relies upon a ‘matatu’, a publicly shared minibus. Sometimes his brother will drive him though. It’s a sacrifice he is prepared to make to ensure he achieves his running potential.

At the training camp there is much camaraderie. The shared sense of commitment and sacrifice he finds builds mental fortitude which he hopes to translate into a superb performance in Toronto. But there is also time to relax.

“I like to listen to music, Kalenjin (tribal) songs, when I am home and at camp,” he says. “And I watch football. I am a Manchester United supporter.”

Both he and Coach Peter laugh heartily when the interviewer shakes his head at the current disruption at the club. Among the group there are Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester City fans also says Peter.

Earnings from Kipchirchir’s running career have helped him take care of his immediate family, his wife Rhoda Jepkemboi Mukche and his 14-month-old daughter Praise Jepkorir.

“I have already bought a small farm,” he says. “It’s two acres. I grow maize and I have goats. My family members are at my home and they look after the farm when I am away at camp.”

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon course record is 2:05:00 held by Philemon Rono since 2019. On that occasion three runners came home within thirteen seconds of Rono, once again demonstrating fast times can be achieved here.

The transition to the marathon sometimes proves difficult for even some of the best distance runners in the world. But something in his preparation and attitude reveals Kipchirchir will have a memorable debut in Toronto.

-30-

Oct 13 2023
0

Elvis Cheboi Carries Kenyan Hopes at TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

By | Athletes | One Comment

by Paul Gains

TORONTO, ON (September 19, 2023) – Although he may not have the fastest personal best time in the field Kenya’s Elvis Cheboi will certainly be a contender when the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon gets underway October 15th.

The 27-year-old made his debut at the Vienna Marathon April 23rd and after running with the leaders through the first half in 62:44 he struggled home in 7th place with a time of 2:10:21. The result left him wondering if he would ever put himself through such torture again.

“It was tough but I accepted it,” he says with a smile during a video call from Iten, Kenya. “You see, it was my first attempt so I can say I tried my best.

“After I finished I felt like I would never again run the marathon. My body was feeling pain. My coach Gabriele (Nicola) helped me and encouraged me with a lot of wisdom and said ‘don’t give up you will do it one day’.”

At this point coach Nicola, who is sitting with him in the lobby of Kerio View Hotel listening in, interjects pointing out that five months before Vienna his charge had recorded a personal best half marathon time of 59:15 to finish 3rd at the Barcelona Half Marathon. That’s ten seconds faster than world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge has ever run. Unfortunately, when Cheboi returned to Iten following that splendid result it was with a slight injury.

The pair had expected he was capable of running 2:06 or 2:07 in Vienna. Indeed the race was won in 2:05:08 by his countryman Samwel Mailu.

“This time we started preparation for Toronto in June,” Nicola reveals. “Immediately his body started to react the way it reacted when he ran 59:15 for the half marathon in 2022.

“Now he is building the shape. It’s not hard to imagine him running sub 2:06. He will be ready to run well. How well? We will see on the streets of Toronto.”

Cheboi trains with the Demadonna Athletic group in Iten. Among the 35 athletes that train with Nicola about a dozen stay at the Kerio View Hotel through the week but Cheboi isn’t one of them. That’s because he and his wife, Ruth Korir, have two very young children – a daughter named Sharline Jerotich, 5, and a 1-year-old son, Shalom Kiplagat.

Their house is about five kilometres from the training centre and sits on some land they own.

“When I am done with training, like this evening, I play with my children and also teach my girl, who is now in school, how to do her homework,” he says. “I help her with education.

“At night I usually watch television mostly CNN. My favourite is CNN and maybe National Geographic. There are so many animals on that channel.”

Like many professional runners in East Africa he is using his earnings from running to prepare for his family’s future.

“Back at my home I also farm,” he says with a smile. “I have animals and also plant maize, potatoes and wheat. This year I have cows, sheep and goats and also I planted some wheat and maize. You know, here in Kenya we like maize because of Ugali.”

Ugali, of course, is a staple on the tables at homes in Kenya and served often with beef stew.

Among those he trains with are two world class marathoners in Joshua Belet who ran 2:04:33 in the 2023 Hamburg Marathon and Kiprono Kipkemoi who was second at Toronto Waterfront Marathon last year.

“I don’t know much about Toronto but I asked Kiprono about Toronto but he didn’t tell me much yet,” he says. “But I will meet with him again about it.”

Among Nicola’s female athletes is Magdalyne Masai who set a Toronto Waterfront Marathon course record of 2:22:16 in 2019. The coach has arranged a meeting with her so Cheboi can gain more insight into the course and all its features.

Cheboi is still a bit of a novice at the marathon but in training Nicola has ensured he becomes comfortable with taking drinks on the run. The coach will ride in a minibus with bottles for all the athletes training. Every five kilometres they hand the bottles to them.

“It’s not exactly like a refreshment station but you learn to drink on the run,” Nicola explains. “Secondly you will know how to grab a bottle and not lose time during the race.”

Unusual for a Kenyan runner when asked whose performances inspired him when he was starting out as a runner Cheboi answers ‘Kenenisa Bekele,’ the Ethiopian superstar who won three Olympic gold medals and held the world 5,000m and 10,000m records until 2020.

“I can say I love Bekele. The way he ran and also from his background of running until now,” he admits although he has never met his idol.

“I encouraged myself. How Bekele runs his performances from way back you see he ran very well.”

These days there is much respect for Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei who broke both of Bekele’s records on the track and won his third consecutive world 10,000m title in Eugene last month. Cheboi remembers an encounter he had with the latest African superstar.

“I remember the world junior championships in Eugene (2014),” he says, recalling he was leading the 10,000m race with two hundred metres remaining before Cheptegei chased him down. “He overtook me 150 metres before the finish. I remember.”

He smiles at the memory. Asked if he would like to race him again he laughs and says ‘yes’.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is once again a World Athletics Elite Label race and as such will have a very strong field. It’s a chance for athletes on the world stage to earn prize money. Moreover, it’s a chance for Elvis Cheboi to show he is a world class marathoner.

-30-