The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is set to take place on Sunday, with more than 30,000 participants expected despite forecasts of heavy rain. Runners will compete in various events, including a full marathon, making it one of Canada’s largest race weekends.
Highlights of the TCS Toronto Marathon
- Date: Sunday
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- Participants: Over 30,000 runners
- Events include: Marathon, half-marathon, and 5k
Ben Flanagan’s Marathon Debut
One notable athlete, Ben Flanagan from Kitchener, Ontario, will make his marathon debut. The 30-year-old has previously represented Canada at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 5,000 meters and is a three-time Canadian 10k champion. He views this transition to the marathon as a crucial step toward his Olympic aspirations.
Flanagan’s goal during this marathon is to secure the Canadian title, which he believes is a realistic target. “My main goal is to win the Canadian title,” he stated. Flanagan has trained primarily in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, relying on friends for pacing while his coach, Jon Green, provides remote training support.
Competitive Field
The marathon will feature a competitive international field. Defending champion Mulugeta Uma of Ethiopia returns, alongside last year’s second and third-place finishers, Dominic Ngeno and Noah Kipkemboi from Kenya. Other top Canadian competitors include Andrew Alexander from Toronto and Phil Parrot-Migas from Mississauga.
The women’s division is led by two-time champion Shure Demise of Ethiopia, who boasts a personal best of 2:20:59. She expresses her fondness for the city, stating, “I have very fond memories of Toronto.” Other strong female competitors include Cynthia Chemweno from Kenya and Almaz Kebebe from Ethiopia, among notable Canadians vying for the national title.
Rainy Conditions Ahead
Participants are preparing for the rainy weather, which could affect the race dynamics. Reid Coolsaet, a two-time Canadian Olympic marathoner, notes that rain can impact performance, particularly for runners not accustomed to such conditions. The marathon route begins at Yonge Street and winds through central Toronto before concluding next to City Hall.
Unique Challenges
In addition to elite competitors, several runners will attempt to set world records while wearing costumes, including one aiming for the fastest marathon time dressed in full hockey gear.
With the forecasted rain, it remains to be seen how the conditions will influence the outcomes of the races. As the starting gun fires at 8 a.m., all eyes will be on the streets of Toronto as athletes brave the elements in pursuit of their goals.
