Run To Empower 2026

This page is kept as a past race archive for the May 2, 2026 edition in Ottawa, ON. Use the links below to find upcoming races in the same area or distance category. You can also browse the 2026 race calendar.

Run To Empower is Run Ottawa's annual celebration of women's running, bringing together elite athletes and everyday runners at the Central Experimental Farm for a morning that's equal parts competitive and community-driven.

The event features three races: Ottawa's Fastest Women 5K — an elite-only performance race open to women who have run under 20:00 for the 5K since January 1, 2024 — the Run To Empower Open 5K welcoming all participants, and the Little Warriors Kids 1K for young runners aged 5–12. The stroller wave kicks off the Open 5K as the very first wave to cross the start line, making the event as inclusive as it is inspiring.

The course is flat, fast, and primarily on concrete paths at the Central Experimental Farm — two anti-clockwise loops designed for those chasing a strong time. Proceeds from the Green Bib option support the Canadian Breast Cancer Network. Whether you're competing for a PR in the elite wave or crossing the finish line with your kids beside you, Run To Empower is a celebration of what women's running looks like at every level.

• Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa
• Flat, fast course on concrete paths and roads — two anti-clockwise loops
• Little Warriors Kids 1K starts at 8:30 AM
• Ottawa's Fastest Women 5K starts at 9:00 AM
• Open 5K (stroller wave first) starts at 9:45 AM
• Online registration closes April 27 at 11:59 PM

• Ottawa's Fastest Women 5K elite race for qualifying women (sub-20:00 since Jan 1, 2024)
• Runners 18:30 or faster receive free entry to the elite wave
• Run To Empower Open 5K welcoming all participants
• Little Warriors Kids 1K for ages 5–12
• Stroller wave starts first in the Open 5K
• Green Bib option supports the Canadian Breast Cancer Network