Race Around the Place 2026

Race Around the Place is a community road race set for October 24, 2026 in Carleton Place, Ontario. Organized as a not-for-profit, this inaugural edition brings a new running tradition to town, built and staffed by local volunteers and community groups eager to showcase Carleton Place’s scenic downtown and riverfront paths.

The event offers three distances: a half marathon (21.1K), a 10K and a 5K, with staggered morning starts to keep the course comfortable for all participants. Start times are 9:00 AM for the half, 9:15 AM for the 10K and 9:30 AM for the 5K. All distances are chip-timed to give competitive runners accurate results while keeping casual participants focused on the experience.

What sets Race Around the Place apart is its hometown route and community focus. Courses thread through historic downtown streets and nearby recreational paths; the half marathon reaches the quaint hamlet of Appleton before returning to Carleton Place along a section of the Trans‑Canada Trail. Proceeds support the Lanark County Hunger Stop Food Bank, and organizers encourage locals to volunteer, cheer and stick around for the post-race atmosphere among independent shops and riverside cafés.

Registration is open now via the event’s Race Roster entry page. Runners who want a local training boost can also join the Riverside Trail Trotters weekly run club, which meets Saturdays at 8:00 AM at Foundry Coffee Bar in Carleton Place.

- **Chip-timed racing:** Accurate finish times for all distances with individual chip timing.
- **Half marathon to Appleton via Trans‑Canada Trail:** The 21.1K reaches the hamlet of Appleton and returns along a scenic section of the Trans‑Canada Trail.
- **Supports local food bank:** Proceeds benefit the Lanark County Hunger Stop Food Bank to help strengthen the community.
- **Stroller-friendly 5K:** Baby joggers and strollers are welcome in the 5K (please start near the back of the pack).
- **Downtown post-race scene:** Finish in Carleton Junction with easy access to independent shops, cafés and riverside patios.