Rubber Ducky Race

Organized by Try Events, the Rubber Ducky Race takes place in Burnaby in October. There are three different runs on the same day including a half marathon.

In 2023 the Rubber Ducky Race happened on October 15th. In 2024 it returns on Sunday, October 20th.

Other fall 2024 events in the series include the Boundary Bay Marathon (on November 3rd) and Vancouver Historic Half (on November 24th). All of these are great events and popular with runners.

 


To register and for the event’s official website visit TryEvents.ca.


 

Rubber Ducky Race in Burnaby

The Rubber Ducky Race is an annual event held in the City of Burnaby. The event features three main races catering to three different levels of runners. There’s a 5 km race, a 7 mile (or 11 km) race and a half marathon (which is 21 km long). All three races happen at the same location each year, but with slightly different start times.

This event is a timed run, meaning all runners get to borrow a time tag. Participants attach the small squares to their shoes before running. The tags track how long each person takes to complete their run, and everyone returns the tags at the end. There are awards for the top 3 fastest times in each race.

The route takes runners along a public trail around Burnaby Lake Regional Park. Most of the ground is firm and tightly packed. However, it’s not a completely flat trail. There are various slight elevation changes that test the strength and stamina of everyone. Also good to know, there are a couple of water stations set up along the route to help runners stay hydrated.

The Rubber Ducky Race is one of several runs hosted by Try Events. Ever since their first event in 2005, the organization has been working with Metro Vancouver communities and supporting local charities. Try Events races are popular and fun for the whole family.

Other races in the series include the Chilly Chase in January, Fort Langley Historic Half in February and both the Vancouver Chocolate Run and Shamrock ‘N Race in March. There are also the Boundary Bay Marathon and Vancouver Historic Half events in November.

 

Rubber Ducky Race at Burnaby Lake Park
Rubber Ducky Race in Burnaby

 

When and Where?

In 2024 the Rubber Ducky Race takes place on Sunday, October 20th.

Warm-up usually begins at 8:45 am, so most runners arrive before that time. The races start at around 9:00 am and the course remains open until noon most years.

With the Rubber Ducky Race, all runs happen around Burnaby Lake Park. The scenic trail offers calming views of the water and chances to see wildlife. The route also goes through both forest and open areas. Participants get to exercise outdoors and take in all of the natural beauty the region has to offer.

The Rubber Ducky Race starts and finishes at the corner of Joe Sakic Way and Sperling Avenue. The nearest parking lot is along Sperling Avenue between Joe Sakic Way and Sprott Street in Burnaby.

To get to the venue from the Trans-Canada Highway, turn north onto Kensington Avenue. Then turn right on Sprott Street (just before the CG Brown Memorial Pool and Bill Copeland Sports Centre). If you miss the turnoff you can also turn right on Joe Sakic Way at the end of the Sports Centre complex and then head down Sperling.

 

Rubber Ducky Race

 

Registration Prices

Costs to participate in the Rubber Ducky Race vary depending on the distance you select and how early you register. The earlier in advance you book, the more you save. Exact prices for 2024 are to be confirmed. Price ranges from 2023 are below.

  • 5 km – $50 to $65
  • 7 mile – $55 to $70
  • Half marathon – $65 to $80

In 2023, registration included a special medal with a duck design for everyone who finished their race. Folks who participated in the half marathon also received other swag items.

 

Other Rubber Ducky Race Details

The event’s charitable partner in 2023 was Charlford House which is a supportive treatment facility for women recovering from substance addiction. Donations to the organization were greatly appreciated.

At the event there is usually a bag drop off station where you can leave your bags and extra clothes. This is a great service because you’ll want to dress warm first thing in the morning but then won’t want to run in all your clothes.

 

Rubber Ducky Race Video

For an idea of what the Rubber Ducky Race looks like at the starting line on the day of the race, watch the following short video. It shows scenes of the start of the race in 2022. As you’ll see, there is a warmup before the run begins. Shortly thereafter, the runners are off on their run around the lake.

 

 

Other Information

For more information about the race in Burnaby, visit the official Rubber Ducky Race page.

Another run in the Try Events series that also takes place at Burnaby Lake Regional Park is the Shamrock ‘N Race which happens around St. Patrick’s Day in March.

To learn more about similar events hosted by the same organization check out our article about Try Events.

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