The flat and fast features of this event have consistently been the reason for so many people achieving a personal best, qualifying for Boston, having a memorable first marathon or an outstanding race. Power walkers and slower runners also love this course because of its 6 hour time limit.

The full and half marathon start on University Avenue just north of Queen Street and finish in the heart of downtown at City Hall, at Bay and Queen Street. They head out and back along the lakeshore on a flat course that Boston hopefuls and first-timers love.

There are bands and Neighbourhood Entertainment Centres every 2 kilometres, cheerleaders, and numerous aid stations. Overall, there's a great, festive atmosphere. All participants get technical t-shirts and exciting finisher's medals designed by Always Advancing.

Toronto Waterfront, however, is much more than just the run… it's a festive, full weekend that starts with running guru John Stanton at the free 2-day Expo, Friday and Saturday. There's a Saturday morning (free) short International Friendship Run, hosted by the Running Room, and a post-race Victory party in Nathan Phillips Square from 8:00am to 3:30pm on Sunday. It's all part of an "unforgettable" Toronto experience!