Scotiabank Waterfront marathon's 10K race draws 5,000 runners to downtown Toronto

About 5,000 runners laced up for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon's 10K race on Sunday.

The event was the first in-person race for Canada Running Series since the pandemic swept Ontario in March 2020. The race also doubled as the Athletics Canada 10K Championships in partnership with Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. 

Fifty waves of 100 runners ran 10 kilometres along the waterfront in Toronto's west end.

The Canada Running Series worked with the Ontario Ministry of Health and Toronto Public Health to create a health and safety plan. COVID-19 vaccination was required and masks were worn in all areas except by the participants while running.

Charlotte Brookes, national event director for the Canada Running Series, said it was a big day for the organization.

"We've been working really, really hard for the last two years, bringing virtual races to everyone, but the core of what we do and what we love is the in-person feeling," she said.

"Getting to see all these people hitting new goals, finishing their 10K, raising millions of dollars for 150 charities through the Scotiabank Charity Challenge, this is what it's all about."

The marathon, half marathon and five kilometre runs were all virtual this year.

For Aisha Cedrone, crossing the finish line was worth the nearly two-year wait.

"I smashed my time, and it's amazing out here. Perfect weather, fantastic race, good to be back," she said.

"You know, perseverance is everything. It's all about the mental discipline in my mind."

Julie Hambleton, a member of a local running group, cheered others on to the finish line.

"I think runners are the best people in the world. Runners just want to support each other," she said.

The Canada Running Series hasn't set a firm date, but Brookes said it hopes to be back in-person for another event in 2022.

Toronto Waterfront Marathon announced the winners of the 10K race on Twitter.