Record 14,000 runners take part in Manitoba Marathon as event marks largest turnout in history
Posted June 21, 2026 5:23 pm.
Last Updated June 21, 2026 5:53 pm.
A record 14,000 runners took part in the Manitoba Marathon on Sunday, making the 48th annual event the largest in the race’s history.
Thousands gathered at the University of Manitoba campus and Princess Auto Stadium for the Father’s Day tradition, which featured participants ranging from first-time runners to longtime veterans.
Organizers said about 70 per cent of participants were new runners, while a record 1,700 people completed the full marathon.
“I hope it inspires a whole lot of Canadians to get out and try a new sport,” said Sasha Gollish, the women’s half-marathon champion.
Rachel Munday, executive director of the Manitoba Marathon, said organizers are already looking ahead to further growth.
“Growth comes with some challenges, but we are ready for it and looking forward to – gosh! – 2027,” said Munday, adding organizers hope participation could reach 15,000 or even 16,000 runners next year.
Among the participants was George Steciuk, 89, who completed the 10-kilometre race. Steciuk said he first entered the event at age 75 and hopes to tackle the half-marathon next year.
“If I can do it at 89, anybody can do it,” said Steciuk.
The marathon has long been a Father’s Day tradition in Winnipeg, with many participants running alongside family members.
“Just having some quality time for Father’s Day with my dad. Crossing that finish line with my dad is so nice,” said Brady Braha Friesen, who completed the 10-kilometre race.
“To cross that finish line together it’s that core memory that we always cherish,” said Darryl Friesen.
Janine Zajac repeated as the women’s full-marathon champion, saying the victory carried special meaning because she has participated in the event with her father since she was five years old.
“It feels amazing! Words can’t explain how good it feels,” said Zajac.
The men’s full-marathon title went to Calgary-based runner Nageso Nyafaro Tuse, who completed the race in two hours and 18 minutes.
Tuse, who arrived in Alberta from Kenya as a refugee in 2024, also won the Servus Calgary Marathon last month.
“You always work really hard. I feel really proud and happy,” said Tuse.
Organizers said the record turnout reflects growing interest in road racing across Manitoba and Canada, with thousands of newcomers taking part in this year’s event.
