The Toronto Airport Runway Race recently completed its 7th annual run/walk with sold out participation and over 3,000 runners and walkers. Complete with jets landing oh-so-close, entertainment for the kids, and firefighters who love to have their picture taken, this fun-filled event is perfect for families, corporate teams or anyone craving something out of the ordinary.

Personally, I have now completed this run for a second time and still find running on the tarmac exhilarating. The race offers both a 5km run as well as a 2km walk which opens the arena to really anyone with a sense of adventure. As most organized races go, the proceeds of the Toronto Runway Race gives back by supporting local community initiatives through funds raised via registration fees, raffle tickets and sponsors. This year’s race was no exception and raised over $150,000!

A big thank you and shout out to the more than 200 volunteers who were up with the sun to assist with everything from set-up, to handing out water bottles, to security and parking. It is because of these individuals that we had yet another exceptional day.

This year again, I was lucky to be part of a team made up of some extraordinary individuals; some novice runners, some much more experienced and a couple of ‘first-timers’ thrown into the mix. Completing a race, of any length, is always a rewarding experience for me but what is truly gratifying is watching the ‘newbies’ complete their first race, receive their first medal and, on a runner’s high, sport a perpetual grin from ear to ear.

The Toronto Runway Race is a definite ‘must’ and comes complete with bragging rights. Happy running!