Join us on November 7, 2026, at Christie Lake Conservation Area for a fun and inclusive run with options for everyone! Choose between a Canicross (run with your dog) or a Human-Only run. Distances include 5K and 10K—the 10K will complete the approximately 5km loop twice. There's also a walk-with-dog option for a more relaxed pace. The course features grass, gravel, flat and rolling hills, on double-track terrain, making it suitable for all experience levels.
Whether you're running solo or with your four-legged friend, this event welcomes all fitness levels. There will swag bags for you and your dog and prizes for our top fundraiser and race winners in each category!
Who is Steeltown Canicross?Steeltown Canicross is a free, community-based run club located in Hamilton, Ontario. We’re a group of dog-loving humans who are “all go, no woah!”—passionate about hitting the trails with our canine teammates. Through the sport of canicross—running while harnessed to our dogs—we build fitness, trust, and connection, one stride at a time. Our club is beginner-friendly and inclusive, welcoming handlers of all experience levels and dogs of all abilities, including those who are reactive. Whether you're new to running, new to dogs, or just looking for a fun, supportive crew to get outside with, you and your pup are welcome here. What is canicross?Canicross is the sport of cross-country running with your dog. The runner wears a waist belt, the dog wears a specially designed harness, and the two are connected by a bungee line. Your dog runs in front, helping to pull you along the trail, creating a fun and team-oriented experience. Originally developed as off-season training for sled dogs, canicross is now a popular sport for all breeds and fitness levels. It’s a great way to bond with your dog, enjoy the outdoors, and get active—together! What canicross gear is required?To participate in a canicross event, you’ll need the proper canicross gear following equipment to ensure safety and comfort for both you and your dog:
Standard leashes and collars are not permitted in the canicross event for safety reasons. If you're unsure whether your gear is suitable, feel free to contact us before race day or stop by the gear check area for guidance. Please note, the race organizers reserve the right to move you to the fun walk/ run if you do not have appropriate gear. I don't have canicross gear can I still participate?Yes, you can still participate in our 5K fun walk with your dog or if you choose to leave your dog behind you can run in the 5k or 10k Human only run. The 5k and 10k canicross categories are reserved for those that have appropriate canicross equipment to ensure the safey of the handler and dog. What is Muphy's Mission?Murphy’s Journey: Murphy was the first Hamilton Animal Services dog we took to a Steeltown Canicross run, marking the beginning of Murphy’s Mission. Abandoned in a field, it took over two hours for animal services to bring him to safety, where he then waited for more than three months without any interest from potential adopters. But Murphy’s story took a wonderful turn. Through some social media magic highlighting his time with us on the trails, Murphy found his perfect family and a forever home. Murphy’s Mission is dedicated to giving other shelter dogs this same chance to shine and to find the love they deserve. Where are the proceeds going?Proceeds from the Steeltown Canicross Murphy’s Mission Race go directly to Hamilton Animal Services (HAS) in support of their adoption and rescue program. While HAS receives city funding for core services like animal control and shelter operations, the adoption program—covering medical care, behavioral support, enrichment supplies, and outreach—relies on donations. By participating in this race, you're helping provide second chances to animals in need and supporting the essential work of Hamilton’s municipal shelter. Thank you for being part of Murphy’s Mission! Course details & race infoCourse Overview
Event Location & Parking
Canicross Start Procedure
Registration & Race Kit Pick-Up
Refund & Bib Transfer Policy
Trail running etiquette
Special Thanks To Eric D'Arcy
We first met Eric back in 2024 at one of his wild and unforgettable Crazy Cat Adventure races — Polar Paws. What a way to kick things off! Fast forward to 2025, and we had seven Steeltown Canicross members out there racing in the snow. And three of our members manage to take the podium! Behind the scenes, Eric has been an incredible support to our team. When we decided to host our own event, he was right there to guide us through the process — permits, logistics, planning, all of it. And let’s be honest: it’s no small task. Without his help, we would’ve been totally overwhelmed. His generosity with his time, knowledge, and encouragement truly made all the difference. For those who don’t know, Eric’s been coaching athletes since 2006 through his business, Limitless Endurance. He’s a certified cycling instructor, an NCCP-trained coach, and works with everyone from beginners to ultra-endurance athletes. And somehow, on top of all that, he also runs C Eric, thank you for being such a big part of our journey. Your energy, passion, and down-to-earth approach to sport and adventure is exactly what makes this community so special. We’re lucky to know you, and even luckier to race with you. With heartfelt thanks, |
