About the First Half
Canada’s Fastest Half
What started as a build-up to the BMO Vancouver Marathon, the First Half has become a staple event in the city’s vibrant running culture. Canada’s Fastest Half Marathon offers a scenic out-and-back course along the Seawall and Stanley Park before returning to historic Yaletown. The history of the event dates back to 1988, when the Vancouver International Marathon Society asked Pacific Road Runners to host a Half Marathon as a build-up event to the Vancouver Marathon. The club obliged and built one of Canada’s premier running events. This event supports Variety – The Children’s Charity to provide help to BC children and their families. To date, runners have raised over $800,000 for charity.
The First Half continues to be a perfect training race leading up to the city’s only Marathon event in May.
Grand Slam
About Grand Slam
Grand Slam awards go to those who run all RUNVAN® races in the same calendar year:
First Half , BMO Vancouver Marathon, Granville Island Turkey Trot, and Great Trek
A bonus prize will be awarded to those who Score the RUNVAN® Grand Slam!
- Run all four RUNVAN® events in the same calendar year
- Includes any of the race distances, except the Kids Run
- Runners may pick up Grand Slam prizes at the Great Trek, it will not be mailed
- Use the same first name, last name and date of birth to automatically qualify
Event Organziers
About RUNVAN®
The Vancouver International Marathon Society RUNVAN® is the non-profit, volunteer-run organization, responsible for organizing the First Half, BMO Vancouver Marathon, Vancouver’s only Marathon event, the Jerome Classic, Granville Island Turkey Trot and Great Trek. The Society is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and delivers running events with a mandate to inspire active lifestyles and celebrate the value sport delivers to our communities. Our vision and mission focuses on promoting and growing the sport of running, engaging communities in the celebration of sport, and showcasing our world-class city. View all up-coming events at runvan.org/races.