Vancouver Marathon

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Country: Canada
Website: https://bmovanmarathon.ca/
2025 Marathon Date: 04/05/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 03/05/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:14:32
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 3k–10k

The Vancouver Marathon is one of Canada’s most picturesque urban races, offering a point-to-point course that moves from the city’s eastern edge through downtown and along the waterfront. Held each May, it blends urban landmarks with expansive natural vistas and has become a destination event for runners across North America.

The race begins in Queen Elizabeth Park, offering a downhill opening stretch that rewards controlled early pacing. From there, the course winds westward through Vancouver’s neighbourhoods before hugging the shoreline of English Bay and looping around Stanley Park via the Seawall. The final kilometres feature flat, fast terrain with open views of the harbour and skyline.

While the route includes some early descending and gentle climbs, the course is generally fast and well-designed for rhythm. The main challenges for sub-3 runners lie in maintaining pace through the winding Seawall and managing any headwinds along the exposed waterfront.

May weather in Vancouver is typically cool and dry, with race-day temperatures often ideal for marathoning. The early morning start further enhances conditions. Course support is strong, with vocal spectators lining downtown zones and plenty of hydration stations throughout. Stanley Park sections are more serene but offer natural focus and rhythm.

The Vancouver Marathon is well-organised, with efficient logistics and clear communications. Shuttle buses, start corrals and baggage services are smooth and reliable. The event attracts a deep amateur field, and the proportion of sub-3 finishers is significant—making it a strong option for serious runners.

For sub-3 aspirants, the Vancouver course presents an opportunity for fast times, particularly for those who manage the downhill start sensibly. It’s also an excellent race for those seeking atmosphere without excessive crowding, or a travel-worthy marathon that combines city running with west coast beauty.