Marathon by the Sea kicks off with fireworks, road races
Drivers should use caution on Saint John roads this weekend
Almost 1,500 runners are expected to hit the streets of Saint John on this weekend for Marathon by the Sea, a three-day extravaganza of community events, fireworks and road races.
Patrick Grannan, a race co-chair, says the cloudy, temperate forecast is perfect for runners, who hail this year from China, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom as well as across North America.
"The runners prefer when it's a little overcast, with more seasonal temperatures for Saint John and a little bit of rain, as opposed to the humidex being up in the 30s or temperatures in the high 20s," says Grannan, adding higher temperatures can lead to safety issues.
"There are very few places you can run a summer marathon. Many people say they've never been to our region and plan a vacation around the marathon."
On Friday at 9:15 p.m., runners will don reflective vests and carry glow sticks before running from the Diamond Jubilee Cruise Terminal down the Harbour Passage to Market Square for the Into the Night 5K.
Fireworks and live music kick off on the boardwalk at 9:30 p.m.
"It's a fun night to be in uptown Saint John," says Grannan.
Saturday at 9 a.m marks the start of the 5K road race, and at 11 a.m., kids 12 and under can run the Port Saint John Harbour Hustle Kids Run, a free road race that includes snacks, face-painting, T-shirts and medals.
But the largest crowds will hit the streets Sunday, with 1,100 to 1,200 10K, half-marathon and marathon runners expected to start simultaneously from the Cruise Ship Terminal at 8 a.m.
Races start at cruise ship terminal
The full marathon route runs to Lorneville, turning around at the Spruce Lake Industrial Park, and returns via Simms Corner. Half-marathoners turn back on Manawoganish Road.
With that many runners starting at the same time on Sunday morning, there are bound to be a few traffic snags, according to Mike Doyle, the race's executive director.
"Drivers should pay especially close attention on Chesley Drive, because we have runners that will be crossing over from the Harbour Passage," says Doyle.
He added that drivers should also exercise caution at the Reversing Falls Bridge, Simms Corner and the Church Street intersection.
"We have the pylons [marking the course] and police there, but reduced speed would be great," he said.
Traffic logistics aside, Grannan says, Marathon by the Sea event is a feel-good event for the entire city.
"There are so many people that come to Saint John, so many friends, people you haven't seen for a while," he said.
"Everybody's in a good mood. The city comes alive: it's electric. It's a fun weekend for everyone that's involved."