Polar Paws Trail Race

****URGENT UPDATE*****

Due to the new restrictions imposed by the province starting January 5th, 2022, our permit has been cancelled by the Provincial Park, therefore Polar Paws in-person will not be going forward. We are very disappointed to say the least, as it's been too long since we've seen our trail family at our races.

See you live in 2023!

*****ANOTHER UPDATE*****

THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE AND SUPPORT!

WE'RE GOING VIRTUAL!

Since we can't see you in person and there has been demand, we've decided to reopen registration for virtual participation.

While virtual is never our favourite option, it is the direction we need to go with, for this race. So we've decided to open it up to everyone who wants to participate and support us, while getting some sweet and sudsy swag from Sue's Soap Creations for both you and your doggo (if you choose the 5k doggo version).

Not only do you get the sudsy swag, get out to complete your run, support a local race, but you have a chance at winning a free entry into 2023! And ANYONE has a chance of winning one of three entries, as none of them require speed or skill - just some fun and imagination.

What are the ways to win, you ask?

1. Collect the most vert for your distance - no matter what distance you run, go for the vert, whether you run 5k, 10k or 25k, you still have a shot at winning. We will divide your vert by the kilometres you've run. For example, if you run 5k with a total of 500m of elevation, that will be 100m/km. If you run 25k with a total of 1000m of elevation that will be 40m/km - therefore, the 5k runner will have more vert per kilometre...so choose your route wisely. Post it or send us a link to your Strava and tag us at #polarpawsvert
2. For our friends that wanted to run with their BFRF (Best Furry Running Friend) - take a selfie with you and your dog and post it, tag us with #polarpawsdoggos and we'll select a winner - have fun and be creative
3. Most creative map art (hint, we like cats)...come up with your most creative route. Tag us at #polarpawsart
4. BONUS ENTRY (yes, that now makes four ways to win) - sign up, run and we'll do a random draw for anyone in the virtual runs...should you feel like posting to Instagram, use the hashtag #welovepolarpaws for an extra chance in the draw.

All entries need to be in by February 6th at midnight and we'll draw on February 7th.

Good luck and we hope to see you in 2023!

Eric and Sue (and all the crazy cats)

***New Location and New Date***

Join us on January 22nd for a 5k, 10k or 25k winter trail run race through the beautiful single and double track trails of Long Point Eco Adventures and St. Williams on the shores of Lake Erie, near Turkey Point. With fun and flowing trails through a snow covered (possibly icy, might be chilly) environment, you are sure to enjoy being outdoors with friends.

****This is a dog-friendly event. If you would like to race with your favourite four-legged furry friend, we will have a separate wave. Your four-legger, will also get their own swag!

General notes regarding racing with your dog:

• ONLY the 5k will have a dog category - no dogs allowed in the 10k and 25k.
• Your dog MUST be kept on a leash no more than 6 feet (preferably shorter). Absolutely, NO retractable leashes allowed.
• You must pick up after your dog - no exceptions, so bring your poop-bags!
• NO aggressive dogs allowed. If your dog is dog-reactive, please leave them at home. This is not the time or place to see if your dog likes other dogs.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times pre, post and during the race.
• Be aware of other runners around you and keep your dog close to you, so as to not trip up other runners or dogs.
• Please ensure your dog is properly dressed for the weather - jacket, boots or what your dog will require to keep it safe.
• It is not recommended to have your dog out for extended periods of time in -10C or below.
• The race director does have final say as to the whether dogs will be able to participate, should the weather not be conducive to their safety and wellness.

SAFETY NOTES FOR THE HUMANS:

• Traction on your shoes will be mandatory should the trails be icy, so come prepared.
• Snowshoes are not allowed in the race. This is a running race.
• Bring dry warm clothes with you to change into post race. We will have pop-up change tents available for people to change.
• There is little to no shelter, so ensure you have clothing to keep warm, pre and post race.
• NO headphones or strollers/sleds allowed on course.

LOCATION AND PARKING: Long Point Eco Adventures - 1730 Front Road, St. Williams, ON - located about 2 hours SW of Toronto, near Turkey Point on the shores of Lake Erie. There is plenty of parking on site.

ROUTE: This is a 5k loop, 10k (2 loops) and 25k (5 loops). The loop will include single and double track with climbing (always fun in the snow) and rollers along the way to keep it interesting. There will be some narrow edge sections and bridges, so always be smart and pay attention, slipping is never fun.

AID STATION: There will be one aid station at the start/finish area with water, electrolytes, hot soup

NOTE: We are a 100% cupless event. Please bring your own drinking vessel, water bottle or hydration pack - make sure if you are using a pack, to have insulation for your drinking tube.

WASHROOMS: There will be ample porta potties on site.

AWARDS AND GIVEAWAY: All participants will receive a beautiful (and wonderful smelling) handcrafted soap, as well as lip balm, from Sue's Soap Creations. All Doggos will receive a tin of handcrafted Paw Balm to protect and moisturize their paws. Top 3 male and female finishers overall for each race category will receive a prize.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Thank you to Sue Sitki Photography, everyone will receive FREE High-Resolution Digital Images included with their race entry!!

REGISTRATION: Race kit pick up and registration will be on site near the start/finish area and open from 8:45 - 9:45am.

REFUND POLICY: Please note that you can purchase registration insurance through the registration process. If you are unable to participate for ANY reason and you didn't get the registration insurance, you can still transfer your bib through Race Roster for $5.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

This is an Athletics Ontario sanctioned event.