9 walking events in London, Ontario

The more women move, the better women feel.

Yet, over half of the women are dropping out or stopping exercise completely, due in part to the barrage of barriers women face when exercising throughout their lifetime.

This International Women’s Day, BackRoads London and ASICS Canada are coming together to change that. Join us on Sunday, March 8th, 2026, for BackRoads' International Women's Day Walk/Run - an event open to everyone who champions women in sport.

We’re proud to once again have ASICS on board as our presenting partner, and even more excited to kick off the BackRoads Running Series for 2026 with an event that truly matters.

This year’s IWD event begins with a couple of local, inspirational women, sharing their stories, experiences, and perspectives before we head out for the walk and run. Participants can choose from several distances, with most routes led by our BackRoads Race Team - powered by ASICS , alongside local leaders, and familiar faces from the BackRoads community.

Your registration includes:

• A donation to Girls Forward

• A special gift, courtesy of our friends at ASICS

• An entry into a draw to win a FREE bib for the Forest City Road Races and Jordan's Run the Runway series.

• Exclusive early access to the taproom at 8:00am (before the store opens at 9:00am) to bask in the atmosphere and hear from our amazing speakers!

Spots are limited, and this event is expected to sell out quickly.

This is more than just miles; It’s a celebration of a Sound Mind, Sound Body and the power of women who Give to Gain. Together, we move with purpose, we give with intention, and we gain strength in every sense of the word. We can’t wait to see you on March 8th.

Event Schedule:

• 8:00-8:30am | Arrive at your leisure and try on a pair of ASICS shoes - you're welcome to take them out for your walk or run. Pick up your ASICS registration gift, then settle in, relax in the BackRoads taproom, and connect with like-minded individuals who are here to make a difference. Give to Gain.

• 8:35am | Walk/run kick-off announcements in the BackRoads taproom

• 8:40am-9:00am | Dynamic local leaders share their journeys, challenges, and triumph stories that ignite motivation, empower action, and celebrate the impact one person can make in their community!

• 9:00am - 10:30am | Walk/run/stroll - routes ranging from 2k, 5k & 10k in the West 5 neighbourhood. ALL paces & abilities welcome - Routes led by BackRoads Race Team members, guest speakers, and local leaders.

• 10:30am - 12:00pm | Taproom social and celebration event - grab a beverage and stay for a minute. This social time is designed for conversation and connection. Mingle with our friends from Girls Forward, ASICS friends, local leaders, or that new friend you just met on your walk or run. Take some photos and reflect on the special day you shared together

• 10:45am | We will draw for free entries into the 2026 Forest City Road Races and Jordan's Run the Runway series!

Welcome to the fifth anniversary edition of the Springbank Sprint!

As in years past, we are tremendously excited to welcome you to Springbank Park for a 5 km (New Era Grafix 5k) or 10 km (BackRoads Brews + Shoes 10k) race. In addition, we will be hosting some shorter runs for the kids (Little Vikings Sports Camp Kids' Runs).

Like always, we're also hosting some walking only events, 5k and 10k.

As with all of our events, a portion of each 5 and 10k registration will be donated to the Children's Health Foundation in support of children and their families in our community.

The Venue

Springbank Park is the crown jewel of the Thames Valley Parkway. Come and enjoy the fast multi-use paved pathways as you run alongside the Thames River. The route is closed to vehicular traffic. The 5km, 10 km, and 1 km kids' run, are out and back routes. The 50 metre and 100 metre kids' runs are short point to point runs.

The races will begin and end near 1205 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario.

Race Sanctioning, Course Measurement, and Certification

As always, the Springbank Sprint is proudly sanctioned by Athletics Ontario.

We've just confirmed (February 11th) with the city that we will be using the same route as 2024 and 2025 which avoids the dam area and any possible construction closures. You can view the routes at the following links:

5k course

10k course

The kids' runs will all be run along the route near the main start/finish line. The 50 metre and 100 metre runs will start that distance from the finish line and run back to the line (we'll have signs in place where your little ones will start along with volunteers). The 1k run will go from the main start/finish area out 500 metres, and then back to the finish.

Race Schedule

Packet Pickup

All local runners are encouraged to pick up their race kits prior to race day in order to avoid congestion and line-ups on race morning.

Tentative early pickups:

BackRoads Brews + Shoes

1295 Riverbend Road, London, ON

Wednesday, April 1st, 2026

5:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026

10 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

On race morning, race kits will be available at the start/finish area beginning at 8:30 a.m. If you are picking up your race kit on race morning, please give yourself ample time to do so.

April 4th, 2026 Race Day!

9:30 5 km start

9:35 10 km start

11:00 kids' runs (50 metre, 100 metre, 1 km)

50 and 100 metre kids' runs are for ages 0 - 10. 1k is for ages 7-15.

Timing

The 5km and 10 km events will be chip-timed events. The kids' events will not be chip-timed and are fun runs. Chip timing is being provided by Chiptime Results.

Aid Stations and Washrooms

Aid stations will be serving water and will be located at approximately the 2.5 km mark, and the 5 km and 7.5 km mark for the 10 km runners.

Portable toilets will be available at the start/finish area. Public washrooms are also available near the start/finish area. There is a public washroom on the 10 k course as well (runners will pass it twice).

Shirts, Medals, Prizes, and More!

Each participant in the adult races will receive an awesome event shirt and our special 5th Anniversary custom race medal. The kids will also receive a finisher's medal and race bib.

There will be some post-race snacks available as well.

Our race photographer will be on hand to capture all of your awkward running facial expressions. Your photos are yours to download, FOR FREE.

Additional prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in the 5 km and 10 km runs (female, male, and non-binary categories). There must be a minimum of five particpants in the running events in order for awards to be given. Results for prizes will be based on gun-time. Prizes will be awarded to the top overall finisher in the walking events.

If you're looking for some post-race recovery, check out our partners at Frigid Recovery. Tell them that you ran the race, and you'll receive 20% off of your cold immersion therapy.

Refund Policy:

There are no refunds for this event. However, life happens. Work trouble, running injuries, a bad paper cut, we get it. If you have to withdraw from the event by March 4th, we will give you a 100% race credit for a future Persistence race (minus CHF donation, taxes, and fees).

If you need to withdraw after March 4th, you will receive a 50% race credit. Sorry, but by then we will have already paid for your stuff, and the resale market for unclaimed race shirts and medals is unfavourable.

There are no bib transfers available for this event.

5k and 10k walkers and runners may change distances prior to the race. Please email us at [email protected] for any distance change requests.

Thanks for taking part in the event, we can't wait to cheer you on!

Event Records

5k Run

Jacob Lasci 17:04 (2022)

Kaitlyn Palmateer 17:29 (2025)

10k Run

Matt King 34:56 (2025)

Jackie Stanton 44:01 (2025)

5k Walk

Janice Strickland 36:41 (2023)

10k Walk

Lisa Taylor 1:16:21 (2024)

National Records

Joanne Miklos den Iseger 5 mile Canadian Masters W75 (2022)

Canio Polosa 5 mile, 8k, 10 k Canadian Master M90 (2022)

Additional Information

We'll have some Persistence Racing gear available for purchase on race day, such as tees, hats, hoodies, etc.

Purchases will be cash only.

Other Races

Be sure to check out all of our Persistence Races here.

Whether you're a runner or cyclist looking for an early-season event to shake off winter and gear up for summer events, a new runner enjoying spring weather and a fun run, or looking for a way to support the work of Sanctuary, we invite you to join us.

Sanctuary seeks to be a place of safety, support, and community for those who are, too often, pushed to the margins. Home is, or should be, a place of community and belonging. Together we are trekking to build a place that feels like Home for everyone.

How you can help power our mission:

1. Walk/Run/Cycle: Join us on April 18th as we Trek for Home (5km, 10km, 21km)

2. Donate: Every dollar helps us towards our goal or sign up as a monthly donor

3. Share: Share our campaign and build a team to run/walk/cycle

4. Volunteer: Your time and skills can make an impact too.

Thank you for supporting our mission, your support is invaluable.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/peer-to-peer/trekking-for-home--2026

Welcome to

Marching for Meals 2026!

📅 Saturday, May 2nd, 2026

🕓 12pm - 2pm

📍356 Queens Ave (MOWL Office)

About the Event

Marching for Meals is a fun, casual fundraising event in support of Meals on Wheels London (MOWL)! Meals on Wheels London is a local charity that has operated since 1969, providing over 3 million nutritious meals to seniors and neighbours in need.

Funds raised help support MOWL's operations and programming, ensuring seniors experiencing financial hardships can continue to access the vital meals, transportation, friendly visits, and more.

Walking is optional.

You do not need to walk to attend or participate. Many people join us to socialize, support the cause, cheer others on, and take part in our auction and raffles.

Whether you choose to walk, fundraise, attend in person, or participate virtually, your support helps ensure no one in our community goes hungry or feels isolated.

📸 Photos will be taken at the event. Please let us know in advance if you do not wish to be photographed.

🛍️ Online Auction

🔗 www.32auctions.com/MOWL26 - BIDDING NOW OPEN (Until May 22nd)

Bid on a wide variety of items and experiences, with all proceeds supporting Meals on Wheels London. Keep an eye on this page for an auction date!

Campaign Events

🎉 Live Event

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 12pm - 2pm | MOWL Office (356 Queens Ave)

Drop in anytime during the event window! The live event is designed to be relaxed and welcoming, featuring:

• Optional walkathon challenges

• Raffles, games, and prizes

• Opportunities to cheer on participants

• Social time with fellow Meals on Wheels supporters

• Access to our online auction and fundraising activities

You are welcome to attend without walking.

Walking challenges are available for those who wish to participate, but they are completely optional and can be done at your own pace.

💻 Virtual Walkathon

April 1 – May 3, 2026

Can’t attend in person? Participate virtually anytime until May 3!

• Walk on your own schedule, indoors or outdoors

• Take part solo or with friends, family, or coworkers

• Fundraise and share your impact within your own community

Virtual participation is flexible — it’s about supporting the cause in a way that works for you.

Our Goal

🎯 End Senior Hunger in London

Every dollar raised goes towards making Meals on Wheels London's programming possible. The money we raise will help us deliver food, take clients to vital appointments, and to provide connection and care for vulnerable members of our community.

I've Signed Up, Now What Do I Do?

Share your personal fundraising page with your friends!

• Don't have your link? Reach out to [email protected] or look up your profile:

https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113203/marching-for-meals-2026/participants

• Aim to get 5 - 10 friends involved, either by supporting you or joining the event and fundraising themselves!

• If you have any questions, please reach out to Devon Mota ([email protected])

You can register even if you don’t plan to walk.

Important Reminder

There is no requirement to walk to participate.

Marching for Meals is about coming together to support seniors and adults with disabilities, however works best for you!

Walk. Cheer. Fundraise. Attend. Share.

Every form of participation makes a difference!