Ecotay Spring Run Off

The Ecotay Spring Run Off 2026 is an intimate, rural running experience hosted at the historic Ecotay farm in the Tay Valley. Scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026, this event captures the essence of spring in Eastern Ontario, guiding participants through quiet country roads and scenic landscapes. Limited to just 200 runners, the race is designed as a boutique athletic gathering that emphasizes community, fresh air, and post-race celebration. Known for its "famous breakfast sandwich" and live entertainment, the Ecotay event offers a transition from a competitive morning run to a festive garden-style party on a heritage farmstead.

The event offers two loop courses, both of which are open to runners and walkers of all skill levels. Timing is based on gun time, with official awards presented to the top overall male and female finishers.

Perth, Ontario, is a historic town in Lanark County with a population of approximately 6,500 residents, though it serves a wider rural catchment area of over 20,000. Established as a military settlement in 1816, the town is famous for its well-preserved limestone architecture and heritage sites. According to Statistics Canada, the demographic of Perth and the surrounding Tay Valley is approximately 93.5% White, with a growing representation of Indigenous (approx. 3.2%) and other visible minority groups. The median household income in the Perth area is approximately $72,000 CAD per year, with a strong local economy rooted in tourism, small-scale agriculture, and public service.

The local culture is a sophisticated blend of rural tradition and artistic community. Perth is often described as one of Ontario's most "European" towns, valuing heritage preservation, artisanal food, and a slow-paced lifestyle. The residents take immense pride in their "Heritage Perth" identity, often seen in the high participation in local festivals and outdoor sporting events. The Ecotay farm itself represents the region's dedication to agri-tourism and environmental stewardship. The culture here is one of high community engagement, where neighbors support local farmers and gather for events that celebrate the transition of the seasons, making the "Spring Run Off" a key social fixture in the Lanark County calendar.

Participants can expect a high-value experience that goes far beyond the 6K or 10K courses. The morning begins with a structured bib pick-up at 8:30 AM, followed by a chip-timed race through rolling country terrain. Upon crossing the finish line, every runner receives a "sweet medal" and Ecotay’s renowned breakfast sandwich. The post-race atmosphere is a highlight, featuring a live band and a celebratory party where runners can enjoy an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage included with their entry. With a strict capacity of only 200 runners, the event ensures a personal, uncrowded experience that prioritizes the beauty of the Menzies Munroe Side Road scenery.