First Half

This very scenic 13.1 mile (21.1 km) route goes out on the Seawall, to English Bay, through Stanley Park and back again. The First Half Half Marathon course is marked at every mile and at half way. The course is accurately measured and certified BC-2012-010-BDC.

Caution: The city has installed speed bumps on Drake Street, 50m before the finish line. Please be aware of this as you sprint for the finish.

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.

In addition to the In-Person event, the First Half offers Virtual Races which may be run from anywhere, anytime from February 1 to to 28. Run all three race distances virtually or try the Hybrid with an in-person Half Marathon and virtual 10KM & 5KM to score the RUNVAN® Triple Crown and earn an exclusive 36.1KM medal.

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.