Canada’s Fastest Half
Capped at just 2,000 runners traditionally, 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. New registration includes shipping costs within Canada. Join in! RUNVAN®.
Annually in February
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 typically 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
2021 Registration Included:
- Tech tee for Half Marathon and Triple Crown runners
- RUNVAN® Race Wrap or Toque option for 10KM and 5KM
- $25 gift card to Forerunners ($75 minimum spend)
- Nuun and CLIF Bar treats (in-person Package Pickup)
- Stanley Park Brewing beer if of age (in-person PPU)
- Free initial visit to Coast Performance Rehab
- Results, leaderboard, and more
- 2022 Early Bird opportunities
- 2021 medals and Triple Crown entries sold-out