Building a More Inclusive Road Racing Experience: Canada Running Series Adds Wheelchair Category and Grant Program

Building a More Inclusive Road Racing Experience: Canada Running Series Adds Wheelchair Category and Grant Program

Over the past two years, Mike Greer has had the privilege of collaborating with Canada Running Series (CRS) to help advance accessibility and inclusion within Canada’s premier road race events. This work has focused on ensuring that adaptive athletes—regardless of experience or ability—feel not only welcomed, but supported throughout their racing experience.

Through lived experience and close collaboration with CRS, they have worked together to create a practical Accessibility Playbook and improve how events are structured and communicated. These efforts are already resulting in impactful change.

New for 2025: Canada Running Series Introduces Wheelchair Category at Three Major Events

We are thrilled to share that CRS will be introducing a wheelchair race category at the following events:

  • Under Armour Toronto 10K – June 14, 2025

  • Vancouver Half Marathon – June 22, 2025

  • TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon & 5K – October 18–19, 2025

This new category includes:

  • A dedicated prizing structure, similar to the open division

  • Designated start/finish line volunteers

  • A tented area for warm-up and race prep

Equity-Focused Grant Program Now Available
In an effort to break down financial barriers to participation, CRS has launched a Race Entry Grant Program. This initiative provides complimentary race entries to individuals and groups from equity-deserving communities.

More information about the grant and how to apply is available here:
🔗 https://canadarunningseries.com/diversity-and-inclusion

Additionally, a limited number of complimentary entries are available directly through our network. If you or someone you work with is interested in participating, please contact us to learn more.