The First Hour

The First Hour is the inaugural event in the Happy Hour Friday Night Series, hosted at the Goodrich-Loomis Conservation Area in Castleton, Ontario. Scheduled for the evening of Friday, May 15, 2026, the race is designed as a welcoming, informal, and community-focused trail run. It serves as an accessible entry point for beginners while offering a scenic challenge for experienced runners.

The event features an 8 km course that highlights the diverse natural beauty of the conservation area. Runners should be prepared for a technical trail experience characteristic of the region. Terrain: The route includes hills, rocks, roots, and mossy log bridges. Conditions: Due to the forested environment, some sections of the trail can be slippery, and the organizers advise caution for all participants.

As part of the Dirty Soles Trail Running series, the event maintains a minimalist and eco-friendly approach. Cupless Event: There are no aid stations on the course. While water is available at the start and finish line, participants must bring their own reusable water bottles. Facilities: A portable toilet is located near the parking lot, but no other facilities are available along the 8 km loop. Kit Pick Up: Participants can collect their race bibs at the venue starting one hour before the start time. Timing and Awards: Timing is recorded manually and shared via social media within 24 hours. To maintain the informal community atmosphere, no individual placement awards are given for this single event.

While individual races do not offer medals, the series rewards consistency and persistence. Participants who complete all three events in the Happy Hour Friday Night Series (The First Hour, the middle event, and The Last Hour) will receive a custom Dirty Soles medal and a prize at the final race. Branded apparel and gear are also available for purchase on-site.

The event operates with a strict no-refund policy. However, runners who are unable to attend The First Hour are permitted to defer their entry to any other race within the Happy Hour series. The event is managed by Dirty Soles Trail Running, who can be reached for inquiries regarding the series or course specifics.