Fast & Furry

The 2026 Fast & Furry, presented by Manitoba Hydro, is the 7th annual edition of Winnipeg’s premier dog-friendly racing event. Scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Assiniboine Park, this festival celebrates the bond between runners and their pets. Participants can choose between a 5K or 10K distance, with all proceeds and fundraising efforts directed toward K9 Advocacy Manitoba, a non-profit dedicated to rescuing and rehoming dogs across the province. The event is known for its high-energy start line and unique "matching" rewards for both humans and their canine partners.

Race Logistics and Safety

Participant check-in begins at 9:00 AM on race day at Pavilion Crescent, following an early package pick-up session on Friday, April 24. To ensure a safe environment, organizers require all dogs to be well-socialized and kept on leashes, with harnesses highly encouraged for the run. Post-race celebrations feature treats for both species, including human snacks from Oh Donuts and specialized rewards from Trail Dog Treats. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual window remains open from April 26 to May 12, allowing participants to submit times and photos from their own local routes.

Regional and Community Context

Winnipeg (R3P) is the capital of Manitoba, with a 2026 metropolitan population of approximately 870,000 residents. Assiniboine Park, where the race is held, is a 1,100-acre historic greenspace that serves as the city's primary cultural and recreational hub. The local economy is one of Canada's most diverse, with significant sectors in manufacturing, financial services, and transportation. The median household income in Winnipeg is approximately $81,000 CAD, and the city is recognized for having one of the highest rates of charitable giving per capita in the country.

The demographic profile of Winnipeg is notably diverse, with Indigenous peoples making up roughly 12.5% of the population—the highest percentage of any major Canadian city. Additionally, approximately 28% of residents identify as visible minorities, with large Filipino (10.5%), South Asian (5.5%), and African (3.5%) communities. The median age is 38.9 years, reflecting a balanced population of young professionals and families. The Fast & Furry event taps into this active community spirit, leveraging the city's extensive park system to support animal welfare through K9 Advocacy Manitoba, which works extensively with remote northern communities to address dog overpopulation and rescue needs.