2014 Calgary Police Half Marathon and 5K Run & Walk

The running of the 34th Annual Calgary Police Half Marathon and 5K Run & Walk kicks off tomorrow Sunday, April 27, 2014.

Viewed by many as the first major run of the season, this run has a following like few others. Often the race becomes a true test of character with the ever-changing weather conditions in Calgary. However, this run has only been cancelled once in its history due to deep snow.

For the first time in the race’s history, the 5K Run & Walk has a theme – Cops & Joggers. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes for the run and prizes will be handed out for best getup.
 
The Service’s own Digital Communications Officer Const. Mark Smith (@CstSmith) will be running the 5K in his full police uniform and will be live tweeting during the run.
 
This year’s race starts and finishes on the west side of Mount Royal University, 4825 Mount Royal Gate S.W. The Half Marathon will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:30 a.m.

The first police half marathon in 1980 started and finished at the Calgary Zoo parking lot with about 250 runners taking part. This year, 2,000 half marathoners and 5K runners and walkers will participate in the event.
 
Due to a number of road closures for the race, residents who live in the areas of Lakeview, Garrison Woods, Lincoln Park and North Glenmore, will likely be impacted by temporary traffic delays between 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday.

Vehicles wanting to enter and exit the community during that time will be directed by police and course marshals when it is safe to proceed.
 
Spectators are welcome to come out and support the runners. For more information about the race go to www.calgarypolicehalf.ca or follow us on Twitter @YYCPoliceHalf.

Race-Related Road Closures: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

• The exit ramp from northbound Crowchild Trail to Mount Royal Gate (50 Avenue S.W.) will be closed.
• Mount Royal Gate (50 Avenue S.W.) will be reduced to one lane in each direction between Richard Road S.W. and 16 Street S.W.
• Richard Road S.W. will be closed between Mount Royal Gate (50 Avenue S.W.) and Peace Keeper Way S.W.
• 66 Avenue S.W. will have runners in the south curb lane between 37 Street S.W. and Crowchild Trail S.W.
Please be aware that there will be a significant police presence in the area during this event. Drivers are advised to use caution when near participants, organizers and volunteers.