Athletics Canada Award Calgary National Road Race Championships

Athletics Canada (AC) has awarded the National 21.1K Road Race Championships to Calgary for for the years of 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

“This honour should come as no surprise,” said Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “I know Calgarians look forward to welcoming racers from across the country who will come here to compete in the championships.”

Already the largest race on the prairies, the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon has become a draw for elite athletes to compete with the best. To recognize the high performance athletes, organizers now offer the top prize purse west of Toronto with more than $52,000 up for grabs.

“As Canada’s longest running marathon, we see our event being the logical host for convening the best in our sport,” says Calgary Marathon Society (CMS) Chair, Dan Ouimet. “We’re proud to partner with Athletics Canada to build this platform to support high performance in Canada.”

Following the 50th Anniversary of the Calgary Marathon on June 1, event organizers will work with Athletics Canada to bring the best in the country to compete in the Canadian 21.1 Championship race in Calgary on June 7, 2015.

“Athletics Canada is excited to begin work with the Calgary Marathon Society and their awesome team in developing a world class event. Athletics Canada is committed to being increasingly involved in the road running community, creating a great experience for runners of all abilities,” said Rob Guy, Chief Executive Officer.

Organizers teamed up with the Calgary Sport Tourism Authority and Tourism Calgary for the successful bid, which will bring runners from coast to coast to experience the race weekend and Calgary’s renowned western hospitality.

“The important connection between high performance and recreational sport has long been recognized and celebrated in Calgary,” said Cindy Ady, Tourism Calgary CEO. “We are excited that Athletics Canada has recognized the strength of the supporting partnerships and organization behind Canada’s longest running marathon, and entrusted Calgary with the National 21.1K Road Race Championship.”