Canada Army Run racers are preparing to run through the streets of Ottawa

September 14, 2023 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Following the success of Canada Army Run 2022, which saw the return of the in-person challenges, racers are once again gearing up to conquer the streets of Ottawa in support of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) during the highly-anticipated 2023 edition of Canada Army Run, presented by BMO, which is scheduled for this Sunday, September 17th.

Starting on September 15th, many activities will be held in and around Cartier Square Drill Hall, including the Race Expo and BMO Kids’ Zone, offering entertainment for racers, military supporters, families, and all attendees. The event will conclude on Sunday with an array of activities featuring the 5K, 10K, half marathon, Sergeant Major’s Challenge (5K + 10K), and Commander’s Challenge (5K + half marathon). Racers will also have the opportunity to participate in virtual races. Media representatives are invited to join the military-themed festivities in downtown Ottawa.

Canada Army Run is not only a chance for Canadians to show their support to the soldiers who have served - and still do - both at home and abroad, but also an opportunity to learn more about the Army of Today. Most importantly, Canada Army Run is an opportunity to raise funds for Support Our Troops and Soldier On, the official charitable causes of the CAF, which provide essential support to ill and injured CAF members, Veterans, and their families.

The theme for Canada Army Run 2023, "Showcasing the Army of Today," will offer audiences a unique opportunity to understand the current reality of the Canadian military, explore the various military opportunities available, and appreciate the significant contributions made by the Canadian Army in order to ensure Canada’s safety.

With more than 15 years of success, Canada Army Run stands as one of the most unique running experiences in the region. From start to finish, racers will be immersed in a military-themed experience and will have the opportunity to run, walk, or roll through iconic locations of the National Capital Region. Thousands more are expected to come out to cheer participants to the finish line as they raise money for Support Our Troops and Soldier On. To learn more about ways to show your support, please visit armyrun.ca.

Please find below the schedule and locations of the events:

Canada Army Run Expo and Race Kit Pick-Up:

• Where: Cartier Square Drill Hall, 2 Queen Elizabeth Drive
• When: Friday, September 15 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, September 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Canada Army Run opening ceremonies and races:

• Where: Corner of Laurier and Elgin
• When: Sunday, September 17, 2023
  • 7:25 a.m. – Start of the Official Opening Ceremonies and Opening Ceremonies for the 5K - presented by General Dynamic Mission Systems-Canada
  • 7:45 a.m. – 5K start for ill and injured participants (Soldier On Wave)
  • 8 a.m. – Mass start for 5K
  • 8:25 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies for the 10K - presented by The Personal Insurance Company
  • 8:45 a.m. – 10K start for ill and injured participants (Soldier On Wave)
  • 9 a.m. – Mass start for 10K
  • 9:15 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies for the half marathon
  • 9:25 a.m. – Half marathon start for ill and injured participants (Soldier On Wave)
  • 9:30 a.m. – Mass start for half marathon

Notes to editor/news director:

Media passes are required to gain access to certain areas, including the Start and Finish Lines. Media interested in covering this event must complete the media accreditation form and submit it online by 12:00 p.m. Friday, September 15, 2023. The Canada Army Run Media Coordinator will contact interested media to make arrangements to pick up their event pass.