LRT to open early May 26 for Race Weekend runners, spectators

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The LRT will open early to accommodate runners and spectators at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend.

Last year, organizers spent months pleading with OC Transpo to start LRT service early on marathon Sunday, but were told it would be impossible due to a maintenance schedule that was already in place at the time of the race.

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This year, organizers worked with OC Transpo and the City of Ottawa to fit in the early start times of the weekend’s races, particularly the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon slated for Sunday, May 26, with runner scheduled to be at the starting line at 7 a.m.  Line 1, which typically opens at 8 a.m. on Sundays, will open at 5 a.m. that day.

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“We’re super thankful for the city and OC Transpo to work with us and be flexible because we know how important this is for all the spectators and racers,” said Mike Vieira, who took the helm of the Run Ottawa as executive director on April 1.

Race Weekend organizers hope the early LRT start time will limit the use of cars and help with congestion downtown. With over 16,000 participants expected to line up at the starting line on Laurier Ave West, adjacent to Confederation Park, and an additional 100,000 spectators lining the course, efficient transportation is important for those involved in the race.

The University Of Ottawa and Parliament LRT stations are closest to the start line. Having three LRT stations within a 15-minute radius of the start line will offer convenient access for both runners and spectators, said Vieira.

Both the half marathon and marathon sold out significantly earlier this year compared to previous years, said Vieira, who expects participant numbers to reach 40,000 by race day. Before the pandemic, Race Weekend reached a peak registered participation of 49,174 over six events. 

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