Calgary Marathon

Location: Calgary
Country: Canada
Website: https://calgarymarathon.com/
2025 Marathon Date: 25/05/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 24/05/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:28:42
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Calgary Marathon, Canada’s oldest continuously running marathon, is held annually in late May in the province of Alberta. While the event carries significant heritage and community support, it also offers a viable course for sub-3 runners looking to test themselves at moderate altitude on wide urban roads.

The race begins and ends at Stampede Park, looping through various Calgary neighbourhoods, including riverside trails, residential zones, and downtown avenues. The course is mostly flat, with some gentle inclines and bridges that break up rhythm without being especially disruptive. The roads are well-paved, and the route is carefully marked throughout.

Calgary’s elevation—approximately 1,000 metres above sea level—adds a layer of subtle challenge for sea-level runners, although the effect is less pronounced than at high-altitude locations. The late-May date typically delivers cool mornings, but weather can shift quickly in this part of Canada, with sun, wind or even brief rain all possible within the same race window.

Crowd support is strongest near the city centre and popular spectator spots like Eau Claire and East Village. Other parts of the route are quieter, but well-staffed with volunteers and aid stations at regular intervals. The event benefits from a polished race-day setup and efficient local transport options.

The Calgary Marathon attracts a diverse field, and while the absolute number of sub-3 runners is modest, the course remains conducive to strong performances. Pacing opportunities exist, but runners may find themselves in solo efforts if caught between packs.

This is a good race for sub-3 runners who prefer structure over spectacle, or who are based in the region and want to avoid travel fatigue. For out-of-town competitors, Calgary offers a clean, compact race experience and a straightforward logistical setup. It’s not a race that guarantees fast times, but with preparation and pacing, it offers everything a serious runner needs.