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 happens on Sunday, October 15th. Other events in the series this fall include the Boundary Bay Marathon (on November 5th) and Vancouver Historic Half (on November 26th). 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 timing 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. Awards are presented to 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 Hot 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 2022

When and Where?

In 2023 the Rubber Ducky Race takes place on Sunday, October 15th. Warm-up 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.

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 beside the main playground near the Burnaby Rugby Club’s Burnaby Lake Clubhouse which is located at 3760 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.

Registration Prices

Costs to participate in the Rubber Ducky Race vary depending on the distance you select and how early you register. 2023 price ranges for each run are listed below. The earlier in advance you book, the more you save. The lowest rates are available until August 17th, whereas the highest rates apply to folks who register on the day of the event.

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

Registration includes a special duck-shaped medal given to everyone who finishes their race. Folks who participate in the half marathon also receive special socks with a duck pattern.

Other Rubber Ducky Race Details

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

At the event there is 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. The bag drop off service is by donation benefitting the Charlford House Society for Women.

Vancouver Try Events Runs

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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