2026 Edmonton First Responders Half Marathon
The 2026 Edmonton First Responders Half Marathon is scheduled for May 3, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Centered in the scenic River Valley Trail System along the North Saskatchewan River, the event begins and concludes at Laurier Park, adjacent to the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Participants can expect a road race utilizing a combination of paved pathways, roadways, and gravel trails, featuring iconic crossings such as the Quesnel Bridge and the Fort Edmonton Footbridge. While May in Edmonton typically brings mild spring temperatures, runners should prepare for variable conditions ranging from cool mornings to sunny afternoons.
What is the event schedule for race day?
- →9:00am: Race site opens at Laurier Park
- →9:45am: Pre-race briefing for all athletes
- →10:00am: Half Marathon (21km) start
- →10:30am: 10km Run start
- →11:00am: 5km Run/Walk and 1km Fun Run start
What distances are available for this event?
- →Half Marathon (21km): A road course starting at Laurier Park, heading north to loop the park, crossing Quesnel Bridge, following paved paths to Fort Edmonton Park Road, and moving east on the Keelor Road pathway with valley switchbacks to a turnaround at Saskatchewan Drive. The route returns west on gravel trails around Fort Edmonton, south over the Fort Edmonton Footbridge to a turnaround in Terwillegar Park, and back via the same route under Quesnel Bridge to finish at Laurier Park. Course details can be found at Plotaroute ↗.
- →10km Run: A route starting over the Quesnel Bridge to a valley top turnaround, returning to the park. Course details can be found at Plotaroute ↗.
- →5km Run/Walk: A route to the Quesnel Bridge area with a turnaround under the bridge, returning to the park. Course details can be found at Plotaroute ↗.
- →1km Fun Run: A short distance option starting at 11:00am.
What is the purpose of this event?
The 14th annual event honors first responders by directing funds to OSI-CAN to support mental health initiatives, specifically focusing on PTSD and operational stress.
What are the registration and entry options?
- →Individual entries: Available for all distances.
- →Team entries: Available for the Half Marathon (calculated by the average time of 4 runners).
- →Charity entry: $40 with a $400 fundraising minimum.
What is included with participation?
- →Finisher medals
- →Aid stations along the course
- →Post-race snacks
Where can race packages be collected?
- →Race packages must be picked up prior to race day at Fast Trax Run & Ski Shop; there is no package pickup available on the day of the race.