Canada’s Fastest Half
Capped at just 2,000 runners, the First Half event is known to sell-out quickly, sometimes within a day! Offering a stunning out-and-back course, the First Half is the ideal way to kick off your running season and build to Vancouver’s only Marathon event. This fantastic community event dates back to 1988 when the Vancouver International Marathon Society approached Pacific Road Runners to host a build-up event to the Marathon. 2022 returns with in-person races, plus tech shirts and medals. Triple Crown entries are also limited and include a special bonus race medal. Join in! RUNVAN®.
The in-person event is sold-out and Virtual Race registration is closed.
Registered runners may still do race transfers, switch into the Virtual Race, or apply for medical deferrals.
Next in-person event: First Half, Sunday, February 13, 2022, SOLD-OUT
Annually in February
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Scenic Course
A waterfront out-and-back course, the ‘First Half’ Half Marathon is a scenic, 21.1KM route that typically takes place in Downtown Vancouver. Kicking off near the Roundhouse Community Centre, the First Half continues out past Sunset Beach, along the Seawall, and back towards the historic Yaletown neighbourhood. For the Virtual Races, you’re encouraged to please find your own course. Triple Crown champs, you may run your three races in any order, on any day, throughout the month of February!
Kilometres
Participants
Pricing Table
Distance |
Current |
| 5KM | TBD |
| 10KM | TBD |
| Half Marathon | TBD |
| Triple Crown | TBD |
Competitive Entries
Capped at 2,000 runners, the First Half quickly reaches capacity. Special entries are reserved for Elite and Competitive Runners who meet certain standards.
Elite Entries
If you’ve recently ran a sub 1:10 (men) or sub 1:20 (women) Half Marathon, you are invited to apply as an Elite Entry via email: lynn@runvan.org.
Competitive Entries
If you’ve recently ran a sub 1:20 (men) or sub 1:30 (women) Half Marathon, or have finished Top 3 in your Age Category at a recent First Half, you may still gain entry into the often sold-out event. You’ll be provided special access to register. Please email us: info@runvan.org
Race Kit
Registration Includes:
- Tech tee for all registered runners
- Race medal for the in-person Half Marathon 21.1KM
- Bonus medal, socks and toque with the Triple Crown
- Option to purchase race medals with Virtual Races
- $25 gift card to Forerunners ($75 minimum spend)
- Partner treats (in-person Package Pickup only)
- Stanley Park Brewing beer if of age
- Measured and marked courses
- On-course water stations and services if in-person
- Results, leaderboard, and more