Welland Canals Trail parkrun Recurring

32nd Annual Grand Island 1/2 Marathon

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, at Beaver Island State Park

A Buffalo Runner of the Year Race

A Buffalo tradition the Grand Island Half Marathon has been providing runners a quality running experience and giving back to the community since our inaugural race April 15th, 1995.

What's Included in This Year's Race

• RaceJoy Live Tracking: Free phone live tracking, progress alerts, and cheer sending for all participants.

• FREE Downloadable Photos: Find your photos easily, arranged by bib number. Share them on social media or even upload your own! Photographers will be at the Start, on the course, and at the Finish line to capture your photo finish moment.

• Commemorative Race Shirt and Medal: Every Half Marathon finisher receives a medal and high-quality shirt to remember your accomplishment.

• First-Time Half Marathoners: Receive a medal with a distinct ribbon acknowledging your achievement and have a dedicated photo opportunity in front of a first-time 1/2 Marathon placard.

• Post-Race Party: Held adjacent to the finish line with awards, food, drinks, and music from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

Race Amenities and Logistics

• Chip Timing: Included for all in-person runners.

• Hydration Stations: Six stations along the course with race volunteers handing out water and sports drinks for runners, and runners are also welcome to carry their own bottles.

• Restrooms: Eight portable toilet stations along the course, plus additional facilities in the start/finish area.

Race Day Details: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026

• Bib Pickup: 7:30 AM in the main parking lot adjacent to the Start/Finish.

• Start Time: 9:00 AM.

• Location: Beaver Island State Park, Grand Island, NY (between Buffalo and Niagara Falls). The race starts and finishes in the main parking lot.

• The Course: Flat, out-and-back, along the scenic Niagara River. More than 85% of the course is closed to traffic, and there is no time limit to complete the race.

• Race Gear: Medals and other race giveaways will be available at the finish line.

Awards and Records

Half Marathon Awards

• Overall male and female winners.

• Overall Masters male and female winners.

• Overall 19 and Under male and female winners.

• Top Three Finishers in each 5-year age division from 19 and under to 80+

Event Records (Entry fee refunded for anyone breaking a record in their division)

Division Male Record Year Female Record Year

Overall Joseph Whelan 1:05:55 2023 Christine Cote 1:19:54 1998

Masters David O'Keeffe 1:09:36 1999 Jenny Keenen 1:21:17 2023

The 38th annual - Don McMaster Memorial

12 Mile Creek Trail Half Marathon & 7k

The half marathon (21 km) race follows a historic route which includes the first Welland Canal and the 12 Mile Creek Trail. The first leg of the race includes the Merritt Trail towards downtown St.Catharines, then heads back to the trails behind Brock University, but only after you have confronted the beastial Hydro Hill and then descend the Niagara escarpment to the finish. The half marathon field is limited to 175 runners and has sold out for the last two years.

The 7 km race, for those that would prefer a shorter distance, is a challenging trail section which incorporates the last part of the half marathon. The field is limited to 100 runners and sold out quickly last year.

The half marathon walker division (21km) uses the same route as the running division and starts 90 minutes earlier.

International Hallers' Run

The International Hallers' Run stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring connection between Poland and Canada—rooted in shared history, mutual respect, and the vibrant presence of the Polish community in Canada. This commemorative event honors the lasting Polish-Canadian friendship and pays tribute to the remarkable contributions and sacrifices made by both nations, especially through the legacy of General Józef Haller and the Blue Army.

General Haller holds a prominent place in Polish military history, exemplifying leadership, determination, and international cooperation. As the commander of the Blue Army—composed largely of volunteers from North America—he showcased the vital support Poland received during its fight for independence in the early 20th century. The journey of over 22,000 soldiers from training camps in Canada to the battlefields of Europe under Haller’s leadership remains a striking testament to bravery, unity, and strategic success.

His legacy extends beyond military achievements, encompassing civic activism, scouting, and nation-building efforts—reflecting a spirit of resilience and solidarity that continues to inspire. The International Hallers' Run, held under the honorary patronage of the Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Poland and the Minister of National Defence of Canada, reflects the strong transatlantic bond between the two countries.

On each side of the Atlantic, this meaningful event takes place in historically significant locations: Niagara-on-the-Lake in Canada, the point of departure for Haller’s troops, and Jurczyce in Poland—the birthplace of General Haller himself. These parallel commemorations highlight the shared values of sacrifice, cooperation, and enduring friendship.

More than just a sporting event, the International Hallers' Run is a tribute to a common history, a celebration of alliance, and a recognition of the Polish diaspora’s vital role in Canada’s multicultural identity. By honoring General Józef Haller and the Blue Army, the event fosters greater awareness of the rich cultural and historical ties that continue to unite Poland and Canada.

Welcome to the

Welland Open Water Swim

and

SwimRun Challenge

June 14, 2026

Welcome to the beautiful Welland Canal Boathouse, where the water is always great and the trails are fast. What a great location for our annual first event in Ontario. Now in its 9th season, The Welland Open Water Swim and SwimRun Challenge is one of our longest-running races and is a great season-opening event.

NOTE the date. We have moved this event 1 week later than in previous years.

Welland Open Water Swim

Whether you are entering your first-ever open water swim or are a season veteran looking for a great early-season event, The Welland Open Water Swim is the place for you. With Distances of 1K, 3K, and 5K you can pick the distancet that works best for you.

Mudskipper SwimRun - Welland

Powered by Canaqua Sports

Calling all SwimRunners, or those who want to give swimrun a try

Come and join us for our first Ontario swimrun of the season, where you swim in the waters of the Welland Recreational Canal and run on trails along its shores.

This event is perfect for the first-time swimrunner with our 7.5 K distance and for the more experienced swimrunner with our longer 10K event. 2 distances that are perfect for an early season event.

We are very excited about our upcoming season and look forward to a great crowd on June 14, 2026

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