2026 First Half

The First Half is back on Sunday, February 8, 2026!

First Half entries are limited and are already at sellout capacity.

You may still register if you meet the Competitive Qualifier Times

Sub 1:15 for Men, 1:25 Women, on the First Half, in the last two years.

Details at firsthalf.ca/elites

Capped at just 2,000 runners, the First Half is known to sell-out quickly! Offering a stunning out-and-back course, the First Half is the ideal way to kick off your running season and build to Vancouver's only Marathon event. This fantastic community event dates back to 1988 when the Vancouver International Marathon Society approached Pacific Road Runners to host a build-up event to the Marathon.

Your race kit includes:

• Exclusive First Half long-sleeve tech tee for all runners or opt to go for our green bib (excludes long-sleeve tech tee)
• $25 gift card to Forerunners (min $75 spend)
• Finisher medal awarded at the Finish Line
• Results, leaderboard, and more!

Limited quantity is available for the bonus tech shirt. Register early to secure yours, or go 'green' to skip the exclusive tech shirt and save on your race registration fees.

The First Half supports Variety – The Children’s Charity to provide help to BC children and their families. To date, runners have raised over $800,000 for charity.

The history of the event dates back to 1988, when the Vancouver International Marathon Society asked Pacific Road Runners to host a Half Marathon as a build-up event to the Vancouver Marathon. The club obliged and built one of Canada’s premier running events.

The event will be subject to Provincial Health Orders at the time of the race.

Package Pickup will be held at Forerunners Main St. from Thursday, February 5 until Saturday February, 7 (10:30am-6:30pm) and is not available race day.

This is the first race in the RUNVAN Race Series. Earn your Grand Slam prize by running all four RUNVAN® events in the same calendar year: the First Half, BMO Vancouver Marathon, Granville Island Turkey Trot and Great Trek.