OTTAWA — When talk turns to the benefits of Ottawa Race Weekend, most people think of the many charities that have their coffers enriched
by the efforts of thousands of runners. Jim Robinson, the event’s general manager, said “over a million dollars†was raised last year, with “over half†going to The Ottawa Hospital, the local charity of choice. And there are many other charities that bring runners to the race, such as the Canadian Diabetes Association, the MS Society of Canada and the Ottawa Food Bank. But by far the biggest financial boost goes to the city’s economy. Robinson says a study done about five years ago showed the economic impact was more than $13 million. “We haven’t doubled, but we’ve come close to that for participation, so I would think the economic impact would have to be upwards of $20 million (this year),†he said. Ottawa Tourism spokeswoman Jantine Van Kregten says Ottawa Race Weekend ranks in the Top 5 festivals that bring out-of-towners to the capital. With most visitors — who usually stay a minimum of two days — spending money in hotels and restaurants and shops, that spells sell-out success. “Our hotels sell out over the race weekend,†said Van Kregten, who will be competing in the five-kilometre run. “Downtown especially … that’s the great thing, it’s not just the runners who come, it’s his or her family, people to cheer them on. It’s a great event.†Besides the sound of thousands of pairs of sneakers hitting the pavement at the same time, Van Kregten says it’s the scenic routes along the canal — and routes that lead past landmark buildings — that make the runs so special. And there are other perks, too.
“A lot of people love Ottawa … because it’s relatively flat and so you can make a pretty good time,†she said. “And it’s a qualifier for New York and Boston (marathon), as well. So a lot of people will come here. As marathons go, it’s an easy entry into the marathon ranks.â€