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Georgina Spring Fling with new marathon option set for May 6
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The Georgina Spring Fling began in 2022 with a 5k, 10k and 21.1k distance.
"We spoke with runners who were looking for alternatives to the Mississauga full marathon after their announcement to only put on the half,” explains co-race director Sandie Orlando. “Since we already have a certified course and the event running, it seemed like a good idea to include the full distance in our spring race to provide another option.”
The Georgina marathon course is certified and does two loops of the half marathon course.
This is the second full marathon from the team of Cindy Lewis-Caballero and Sandie Orlando who established the popular Georgina Marathon in 2021 as a response to the closure of so many races during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first Georgina Spring Fling followed shortly afterwards.
“Many runners like the community vibe of our event, so we were getting lots of encouragement to add the full distance to our spring race,” Lewis-Caballero says. “Fortunately, because we are a growing event, we could respond quickly to this opportunity.”
The events offer fast, flat, and scenic courses that run along the shores of Lake Simcoe, which has already proven to result in one of the highest percentages of Boston Qualifiers to registrations and personal bests.
“The straight out and back double loop makes it easy to manage your pacing. It’s close to the GTA and in a smaller, friendly community which makes it feel approachable and low-key,” Orlando says. “That makes it attractive for someone whose goal is to BQ – but also for someone doing their first marathon and trying to manage their nerves.”
The new spring marathon adds to the already popular Georgina Marathon slated for Sept. 10, 2023. An event that also includes a half-marathon and a 5-km option. The area is proving popular among Greater Toronto Area runners looking for a good course located in an area that allows for some post-race relaxation and for family and friends to comfortably watch and enjoy the scenery.
“Fast, flat and scenic – that’s the mantra because it describes the course. And because it’s the same as in previous years – for both the Spring Fling and the Georgina Marathon in September, runners have the unique opportunity to compare their performance on the same course in the same season,” Lewis-Caballero says “The start, turn around and finish are in De La Salle Park, which makes it easy for family and friends to be there to cheer and enjoy the day.”
In addition, an added bonus is that run clubs are invited to put up their tents and cheer each other on. The event has attracted a number of wheelchair racers as well as some international competitors. But, the events aren't big enough yet to support an elite field, which means the age-group athletes get all the attention.
For more information on the Georgina Spring Fling and the Georgina Marathon check the Endurance Events website here.
