The Big Picture
The Capilano Canyon Night Run (A Midsummer Night's Dream) is a social get-together with a twist: Unlike other garden parties you might have attended, there's a 90-minute run in the dark separating you and the potluck buffet table!
Regardless of their fitness level, all guests are expected to participate in the event in one of 3 categories: Group, Competitive or Crew. The highlight of the evening is an outdoor potluck party in celebration of summer and good friends.
Routes
The Capilano Canyon Night Run courses were designed to provide a fun and safe 90 minute night running experience for runners with just about any level of experience. Experienced runners may opt for the longer, more difficult Competitive route. Those who prefer a less aggressive pace and the company of a guide, choose the Group category.
The routes have been carefully selected to make the most of the extensive network of trails in and around the Capilano Canyon in North Vancouver, British Columbia. Footing ranges from pavement to crushed gravel to mossy roots, rocks and sections of swamp (competitive route.) If you expect wet feet, you most likely won't be disappointed.
The Differences
The objective of the organizers is to challenge both mind and body of the runner... and to leave minimum impact on the environment.
Most road races and trail events are clearly marked by race officials with fluorescent cones, surveyor tap, lime or glow sticks along the race course. Most races have 'aid' stations, where runners can access food and water provided by the organizers. With the benefit of aid and course marking, competitors can focus on putting their heads down and running.
The philosophy of the Capilano Canyon Night Run is to emphasize the journey rather than the destination. Self-reliance and low impact are key. There is no 'official' aid or trail marking provided by the event organizers, as they want to run, too! Family or friends play an integral support role.
Participants download from the Internet directions based on natural and physical landmarks. As with orienteering, runners who pause frequently to consult the written directions have the opportunity to catch faster runners who go off the trail. Runners who have trained on the course have a distinct competitive advantage. Detailed questions and clarifications are provided in the FAQ. To play it safe we also recommend that everybody bring their FRS radios along to help us in finding you in case you should get lost. Each runner needs to sign in at the start and sign out at the finish.
Past Participants and Results
Results from past events and a scrapbook of photos and comments are archived under Results
