Demi Marathon de la voie verte

The Demi Marathon de la voie verte returns to Chelsea, Quebec on August 16th, 2026. Organized as the only linear event in the Ottawa area, it spans 18 kilometers along the Chelsea Greenway, offering a unique and scenic route through lush surroundings.
Race morning finds runners starting at the picturesque park located off Highway 537, north of downtown Chelsea. The atmosphere is calm with participants gathering under the shade of trees that line the greenway. With an average temperature around 19.5 degrees Celsius on race day, conditions will feel comfortable and inviting for all participants.
The event has been running since its inception in 2024, growing from a small community effort to now supporting over two hundred runners annually. The marathon proceeds go directly towards scholarships at the local high school, fostering young talent within the area. This long-standing tradition of giving back makes it an essential part of Chelsea's summer calendar.
The course venue is a mix of smooth gravel and paved paths, providing a challenging yet enjoyable run through neighborhoods known for their greenery and natural beauty. Runners will start at 7:00 AM sharp on the Chelsea Greenway, running south towards downtown before looping back to finish where they began. A few aid stations are set up along the route, ensuring participants have access to water and other refreshments.
The weather on race day is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15.2 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 23.9 degrees Celsius, feeling like it will stay at around 19.5 degrees throughout the event. A gentle breeze of about eight kilometers per hour and humidity levels of 76.6% make for pleasant running conditions.

The race offers three distances: 1km for a shorter training session or family fun; 5km for those seeking a more significant challenge, with a registration fee of $45.98; and the full marathon distance of 21.1 kilometers at a cost of $111.52.
To register, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/109546/demi-marathon-de-la-voie-verte. Early-bird pricing ends on July 30th for the marathon and August 8th for the shorter distances. Bib pickup is available at the Chelsea Community Center from September 1st to September 15th, requiring a valid ID.
The start location is located off Highway 537 in downtown Chelsea, near the Chelsea Greenway entrance. Participants must be over 14 years old and are encouraged to arrive early with their bibs ready for quick check-in. The event not only offers a rewarding running experience but also supports local education initiatives through its generous donations.
The Demi Marathon de la voie verte is more than just an athletic endeavor; it's part of the community fabric, showcasing Chelsea’s commitment to health and education while providing participants with a memorable day out on the greenway.