The Demi-Marathon Mont-Tremblant has become a summer tradition in the Laurentian Mountains each August. Family, friends and the running community gather to celebrate the hard work and dedication of each and every participant who pins on a race-day bib.

A community event on a grand scale

Close to 30,000 runners have crossed the Demi-Marathon Mont-Tremblant finish line since its inception in 2010. On August 13, another 2,500 athletes are expected to collect a finisher’s medal.

Again this year, there will be first time participants and seasoned runners competing in the 5K, 10K and 21.1K distances. There will be runners looking to set a personal best and teams working together to capture the coveted Mont-Tremblant Chamber of Commerce trophies. A highlight on race day: hundreds of children will churn out a blazing 1K sprint down the centre of town.

Celebrating does not end at the finish line. Whether you’re running, cheering or volunteering, you won’t want to miss the event’s Health and Fitness Expo all weekend, showcasing dozens of local vendors.

Host of the Provincial Championship 21.1K Road Race

The event has witnessed some amazing talent over the years. This year will be no exception as it again hosts the coveted Québec Provincial Championship for the 21.1K road race distance.

An impressive roster of elite runners has already registered for the August event. They will join over 1,000 runners expected to take on the 21.1K this year. Runners will be competing not only to cross the finish line first, but to break the three-time winning streak of François Jarry. With a course record of 1:08:52, this three-time Québec Road Runner of the Year will be the one to beat this summer.

“I’ve got my eye on the top spot of the podium again this year,” François Jarry tells us. There’s a cash prize for the first three men and women across the finish line, and race director Dominique Langelier reminds us that, “It is not just the winners who are champions. Every participant is a champion. We invite you to be a champion this summer.”

Endless opportunities

The event offers a way for everyone to participate. Run on your own or create a group. With a team you take advantage of a remarkable discounted entry fee, and experience the shared joys of training and running together. The parentchild category is always a favourite as well.

On the other side of the finish line, volunteers are the key to this community event. They get a front row seat to all of the action. “If you’re not running, experience race day excitement as a volunteer” encourages project director Élise Dosnon.

Run Strong all summer

To support the summer of champions, the RobFit KinCentre is offering every registered participant a free Run Strong training package. Sponsored by Rona Forget and coached by Certified Athletic Therapist Alexandre Roy, the training sessions are held each Thursday evening at 6 p.m. through August 10 at the Curé-Mercure Polyvalent High School running track.

“I am committed to getting every registered participant to the finish line in August, stronger, faster and with a grin from ear to ear,” advises Coach Roy.

Whether you are the first or last to cross the finish line tape, this summer is your opportunity to be a champion.

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